Washington school districts tighten rules on student phone use

As the new school year begins, districts across Washington state are implementing stricter policies on student smartphone use in classrooms and on campuses. According to State Superintendent Chris Reykdal, three-quarters of the state’s school districts will limit smart device use in class this year.

A recent survey by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction revealed more than 50% of districts will restrict devices during instructional time. Nearly one-third of districts will ban them throughout the entire school day.

“Phones have negative impacts on mental health, learning, sleep, and more,” Reykdal stated.

The Spokane Public School District is among those that have already been restricting student phone use in schools. District Superintendent Adam Swinyard shared in May of l