by The Unified School District Board of San DiegoA phone-free school day policy for the 2025–2026 academic year was authorized on Tuesday; it will go into effect on August 11.
All TK-12 children are subject to the rule, which mandates that phones be turned off and hidden, like in backpacks, during regular school hours.
The California Phone-Free School Act, a state statute that mandates all public school districts adopt rules by July 1, 2026, was adopted early by SDUSD.
According to the district, the recommendations are intended to enhance kids’ academic progress and emotional health by limiting disruptions in the classroom, encouraging peer relationships, and promoting appropriate digital boundaries.
According to Superintendent Fabiola Bagula, restricting phone use during the school day fosters concentrated learning environments where kids can devote themselves entirely to their studies and form deep bonds with their friends.
According to each school’s bell schedule, using a phone during regular school hours is prohibited under the regulation. Use is permitted during lunch and recess hours, before and after school, and even before the first bell in high schools.
Exceptions are allowed for students with specific learning or health needs, including:
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- Emergencies or safety threat
- Medical necessity (doctor or mental health provider verified)
- Individualized Education Program or Section 504 plan accommodation
- Instructional use explicitly authorized by educators
Visit sandiegounified.org/PhoneFreePolicy for information on the school day policy, commonly asked questions, and family resources.
