Cell Phone Policy and Procedures

In alignment with State Legislation AB 3216 (link) and under the direction of our Board of Education, the Palm Springs Unified School District (PSUSD) has adopted a new cell phone policy to support student learning by minimizing distractions during instructional time. 

The Palm Springs Unified School District School Board officially adopted the Mobile Communication Devices Policy (link) and Administrative Regulation (link) at its ------- School Board Meeting.  PSUSD now limits cell phone usage in our district, including these differences at each level:

Elementary School Students

• Cell phones must be off or silenced and away all day.
• Cell phones must be placed in the student’s backpack, class pocket chart, or other storage system.

Middle and High School Students 

• Cell phones must be off or silenced during all instructional time and passing periods.

• Cell phones must be placed in the student’s backpack, class pocket chart, or other storage system.
• Middle and high school students may use their cell phones during lunch.

Under the following circumstances, students shall not be prohibited from utilizing cell phones:

• In the case of an emergency, or response to a perceived threat of danger.
• When a teacher or administrator grants permission for a specific learning objective.
• When a licensed physician or surgeon determines that the possession or use is necessary for the student’s health and well being.
• When the possession or use is required by the student’s individualized education program.

Other cell-based devices, such as smartwatches, air pods, smart glasses, etc., also will not be allowed during class time.  Students with specific medical or other documented needs may have accommodations made.  

Full implementation of the policy will begin at the start of the 2026-2027 school year.