The revised policy provides clarity and consistency across the district, with the goal of improving student engagement, peer relationships, and overall well-being

At its regular meeting on Tuesday (Aug. 26), the Ridgefield School District Board of Directors unanimously approved updates to Board Policy No. 3245: Students and Telecommunication Devices. The revised policy provides clarity and consistency across the district, with the goal of improving student engagement, peer relationships, and overall well-being.

This marks the first update to the policy since April 2018. The decision follows months of discussion at the state, local, and school community levels, as well as feedback from Ridgefield staff, students, and families. Last school year, teachers at Ridgefield High School and View Ridge Middle School piloted a program that reduced cell phone access on campus. Their experiences, along with a book study of The Anxious Generation, played an important role in shaping the district’s new approach.

A community-driven decision

Board President Brett Jones emphasized the importance of making this change while also remaining flexible. “This policy represents a needed step forward to ensure that our classrooms are spaces focused on learning, connection, and growth,” Jones said. “At the same time, we know it’s important to listen and learn as we go, and we are committed to adjusting as necessary to best meet the needs of our students and staff.”

Superintendent Dr. Jenny Rodriquez expressed her gratitude to the community for their involvement in the process. “We are thankful to the more than 1,200 parents, staff members, community members, and students who shared their input through surveys and conversations this summer,” Rodriquez said. “Your feedback was invaluable, and it demonstrates the strength of our community when we come together to focus on what’s best for our kids.”

Key policy highlights

The updated policy establishes a uniform, districtwide standard:

• Elementary students are not permitted to bring personal electronic devices to school. This includes cell phones, smartwatches, and internet-enabled gaming devices.
• Middle and high school students must keep personal devices “Off and Away, All Day” during the school day.
• Exceptions are allowed for instructional use with teacher permission and for students with approved accommodations in their IEP, Section 504 plan, or Student Health Plan.
• Families needing to reach students during the day are asked to contact the school office directly.
• More details will be shared with families and staff soon, so stay tuned for updates

The new policy was developed in alignment with recommendations from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), which urged districts across Washington to update their student cell phone policies beginning with the 2025–26 school year.

Click to review the full policy, Board Policy No. 3245: Students and Telecommunication Devices, and the Procedure 3245P.

Information provided by the Ridgefield School District.