PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY
In July 2025, Governor Tina Kotek released Executive Order No. 25-09 which requires that all Oregon school districts have a policy in place that restricts the use of personal electronic devices from the start of regular instructional hours to the end of regular instructional hours.
Definition of Personal Electronic Device
A “personal electronic device” is a device, not issued by the district, that is capable of electronically communicating, sending, receiving, storing, recording, reproducing and/or displaying information and data. This means any portable, electronically-powered device that is capable of:
- Making and receiving calls
- Making and receiving text messages
- Accessing the internet independently from the school's network infrastructure
Personal electronic devices do not include laptop computers or other devices required to support academic activities.
The requirement aims to support students' well-being and improve academic outcomes by ensuring students are fully engaged in learning within a distraction-free environment.
Why Limit Personal Electronic Devices?
Personal electronic devices are a regular part of students’ lives, but their use during the school day has raised significant concerns. Research shows that constant access to devices and social media can lead to:
- Reduced focus.
- Increased bullying.
- Increased anxiety and depression.
- Weaker peer connections.
Concerns about Emergency Communications
Many parents/guardians consider cell phones to be a lifeline during emergencies, allowing quick communication between children and families. But this type of communication can have unintended consequences:
- Excessive communication can overwhelm cellular networks, hindering effective response efforts by public safety personnel.
- Spreading incorrect information, misinformation or unverified details can cause confusion and additional fear — potentially worsening the situation.
- Contact with others via personal electronic devices could distract students from hearing vital instructions from school staff in an emergency.
- A phone's alerts, alarms, notification sounds or vibrations could potentially bring unwanted attention to a student during an emergency.
For these reasons, parents/guardians are asked not to communicate directly with their children during an emergency, and instead, rely on communications coming from the district for information.