Cell Phone Policy

Student Cell Phones and Personal Devices

At CSDB, we are committed to creating learning environments that are focused, engaging, and free from unnecessary distractions. To support student learning and well-being, personal electronic devices are not permitted during instructional time unless approved by school staff for educational purposes.

This policy aligns with Colorado House Bill 25-1135, which requires school districts and institute charter schools to adopt policies regarding student use of communication devices during the school day. CSDB's approach is also aligned with neighboring Colorado Springs School District 11, which implemented similar expectations to support focused learning environments.

Personal electronic devices include:

• Cell phones
• Smart watches
• Earbuds and headphones
• Tablets and similar devices

School for the Deaf and School for the Blind (Grades K–5)

Students may bring personal devices to school, but they must remain secured in backpacks throughout the school day.

School for the Deaf and School for the Blind (Grades 6–12)

Students are required to place cell phones and personal electronic devices in a designated storage area at the beginning of each class period and retrieve them when class ends.

Bridges to Life (BtL) Transition Program

Students must keep personal devices secured and out of sight during instructional time and work-study placements unless approved for educational or workplace purposes.

Preschool (Early Education Center)

Students should leave personal electronic devices at home. School-provided devices are available for supervised educational use when needed.

Family Communication

Parents and guardians who need to contact their child during the school day should call the school's main office. Students may contact parents or guardians through school staff when necessary.

Student Safety

Classrooms and programs have access to phones and emergency communication systems, and staff are trained to respond to emergencies.

Policy Violations

Students who do not follow these expectations may be subject to progressive disciplinary consequences in accordance with school and student handbook procedures.

Why This Policy?

Research and school experience show that limiting personal electronic devices during instructional time can:

• Reduce distractions
• Increase student engagement
• Support academic success
• Encourage positive social interactions
• Promote student well-being

These expectations help create a learning environment where students can focus, participate, and thrive.