📱 New Personal Electronic Device Policy for Students in 2025–26: A More Consistent Approach for All Grade Levels

July 1, 2025

Dear Boise School District Secondary Students, Families, and Staff,

We’re writing to share an important update to our Personal Electronic Device (PED) Policy, which goes into effect July 1, 2025, and applies to all students beginning with the 2025–2026 school year.

As many of you know, managing cell phone use in schools is not a new challenge. Over the past school year, all of our secondary schools piloted school-specific cell phone policies, gathering feedback from students, families, and staff. This work—combined with survey results, research on student learning, and guidance from other districts—has shaped a revised policy that brings greater consistency and clarity across all Boise schools.

🔑 Key Policy Highlights by Grade Level:

• Elementary School

Devices must be off and stored during the entire school day.

• Junior High School

Devices must be off and stored in lockers during the school day.

• High School

Devices may be used before/after school, during passing periods, and at lunch, but must be off and stored during instructional time.

Additional Guidelines for All Grade Levels:

• Smartwatches must be in “Do Not Disturb” or silent mode.

• Unauthorized use—including recording, photographing, or sharing content without consent—is strictly prohibited.

• A graduated approach to discipline will be in place at each school to ensure fair and consistent enforcement.

• Accommodations will be provided for students with documented needs through an IEP, 504 Plan, or Individual Health Plan.

This revised policy supports a learning environment where students are more present, focused, and engaged—while still allowing for appropriate access to personal devices at designated times.

Each school will communicate its implementation plan before the new school year begins. Updates will also be included in student and family handbooks, back-to-school events, and staff meetings.

We encourage families to begin conversations now about healthy tech use. Common Sense Media’s Family Tech Planners and Guides are great resources to support this at home.

Thank you for your continued partnership in helping us create schools that are focused, respectful, and ready to support every student’s success.

Sincerely,

Boise School District

Administration

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