3/10/25 -- Over the past few years, we have heard increasing concerns from teachers, particularly at the high school level, about the impact of cell phones on student learning. This theme was also reflected in last year’s strategic plan survey, where both teachers and parents expressed similar concerns.

For several months, Parkway has been exploring various approaches to personal electronic devices to increase learning, improve mental health, and foster community in our classrooms and schools.

Cell phones are negatively impacting learning and social interaction.

Research conducted by the Parkway cell phone subcommittee last fall indicates that distractions from cell phones and personal devices are taking a toll on learning, mental health, and social interaction at school. 

Parkway’s approach to student cell phone use is not currently consistent across schools, grade levels, and classrooms.

We are committed to equipping students with the skills needed to navigate technology responsibly, preparing them to balance cell phone use in their personal and professional lives. Setting boundaries and learning when and how to use technology responsibly now will help prepare them for future success.

Community feedback shaped our recommendations

In January, we sought teacher, parent, and student feedback on potential cell phone restrictions. This input was invaluable as we shaped our recommendations. You can view the survey results here. 

Key findings include:

• Elementary and middle school teachers and parents strongly support a full-day restriction on cell phones and personal technology for students during the school day.
• High school teachers and parents gave the highest favorability to classroom restrictions, allowing students to use phones during passing time and lunch. High school students prefer the current approach, where individual teachers determine cell phone usage. 
• There was widespread support for clear, consistent, district-wide guidelines and enforcement.

Our recommendations to the Board of Education

Based on feedback, we are recommending:

• High Schools: Implement cell phone-free classrooms (meaning cell phones and other personal electronic devices are not permitted during class time) starting in the 25-26 school year.
• Elementary and Middle Schools: Implement a full-day restriction on cell phones and other personal technology devices.
  

What’s next

• Parkway administration will present these recommendations to the Board of Education at its meeting on Wednesday, March 12. You can watch the meeting live or later here. 
• A group of high school teachers and principals have drafted protocols, procedures, and clear disciplinary consequences for violations. Tomorrow, high school teachers will give feedback on these drafts, and further discussions will take place on April 8.
• Middle school principals will work with staff to adjust existing consequences for violating cell phone restrictions, and elementary leaders will develop communication and procedures in the coming months.
• On April 16, the board is scheduled to vote on policy updates necessary to implement any changes for the 2025-26 school year. 

Thank you for your feedback and support throughout this process. We appreciate the shared commitment of our parents, staff, and students to create healthier and more engaging learning environments for all students. 

We will continue to keep you informed as we plan for the next school year.