Cell Phones and Devices Policy

Dear Sobrato Students and Families,

As we prepare for the upcoming school year, we are reflecting on what habits and practices will help all students to reach high levels of learning. One common distraction in the classroom is use of electronic devices. Research from Common Sense Media in 2023 found that 97% of study participants used cell phones during school hours, with a median average of picking up their phone 13 times per school day. The most common apps in this study were social media (32%), gaming (17%), and YouTube (26%). In addition, the CDC found that 16% of high school students in their study experienced bullying through texting or social media in 2021. In light of this information, Sobrato High School will be implementing a cell phone policy in order to limit distractions, create a positive environment, and provide common expectations across all classrooms. 

The purpose of the policy is to limit student access to cell phones and other personal electronic devices during class time. Each classroom has a phone with which teachers can receive calls from the front office, and we are encouraging families to email their students or text them with the understanding that they will receive text messages between class periods. Students will be able to use their cell phones before and after school, during brunch and lunch, and during passing periods.

We also want to remind students that having phones in restrooms and locker rooms is not permitted. This is a safety and privacy issue. There are severe consequences both from the school and from the police for videos and/or photos taken in locker rooms and restrooms, as some of these videos or photos can be serious crimes. In an effort to provide all students with a safe and welcoming school environment, we will continue to remind students and their families about this issue.

Please see below to read the Sobrato High School Electronics Policy, which can also be found in the student handbook and will be posted in every classroom. 

Here are some additional resources about the use of electronic devices for students and their families:

• Cellphones and Devices: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers: How to help preteens and teens use their phones safely and responsibly (Common Sense Media)

• Constant Companion: A Week in the Life of a Young Person’s Smartphone Use (Common Sense Media)

• Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data Summary & Trends Report: 2011-2021 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Sincerely,

Sobrato High School Admin Team