(The Center Square) — The San Diego Unified School District has approved a phone-free policy in classrooms for the 2025-26 school year.
The approval came as part of a national trend to crack down on cellphone usage during school hours. Implementation will begin on the first day of the school year, Aug. 11.
The policy aims to minimize distractions and create a learning environment that improves students performance and mental health.
According to the policy, phones may not be used during school hours. They are only permitted before and after school hours, in case of an emergency or for medical purposes.
“Limiting the use of phones during the school day creates focused learning environments where students can fully engage with their education and build meaningful connections with their peers,” said Superintendent Fabiola Bagula.
This comes after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 3216, the Phone-Free School Act, which requires every school district, charter school and county office of education in California to develop policies on limiting cellphone usage by July 1, 2026.
“We know that excessive smartphone use increases anxiety, depression and other mental health issues — but we have the power to intervene. This new law will help students focus on academics, social development, and the world in front of them, not their screens, when they’re in school,” Newsom said.
The Los Angeles Unified School District implemented its cellphone policies back in February.
“Cellphone use in schools has gotten out of control,” Jackie Goldberg, president of the LAUSD board, said in a press release. “It’s gotten to the point that students don’t talk face to face, but instead text one another when they’re sitting right next to each other!”
California, Nevada, Arizona and Colorado have all passed laws banning the use of cellphones in schools.
“Building healthy technology behaviors starts with strong partnerships between families and schools,” said Bagula, the San Diego superintendent. “Our new approach eliminates phones during instructional time, while equipping families with thoughtfully crafted materials and conversation starters. These tools will help create ongoing dialogues about mindful technology use between students, parents, and teachers. Together, we’re working toward technology habits that strengthen learning, support mental health, and deepen relationships in every setting where our students learn and grow.”
