Notice for Students, Families, and Staff
Welcome to the new school year! The state of Colorado requires that every school district have a policy for student use of electronic devices. Our district will work together with students, parents, teachers, and staff over the next couple of months to listen to your ideas and write a permanent district policy that is best for student learning, social skills development and safety. To make sure that all students begin the school year focused on learning and making friends, our schools are starting a temporary "bell-to-bell" device rule beginning on the very first day of school.
What Is a "Bell-to-Bell" Ban?
"Bell-to-bell" means from the moment the first morning bell rings to start the school day until the final afternoon bell rings at dismissal, no personal electronic devices may be used, visible or heard at any time. This includes class time, time in the hallways between classes, recess, and lunchtime.
What Devices Does This Rule Cover?
This rule applies to all personal electronics brought from home, including:
Cell phones
(smartphones and flip phones)
Smartwatches
(or any wearable device that receives messages or notifications)
Earbuds and headphones
(wireless or corded)
Personal tablets, handheld games, or personal computers
Of course school-issued devices used for classroom work are allowed.
Why Are We Doing This Right Now?
We want school to be a safe, fun, and distraction-free place where students can learn and connect with people in person. Over the next couple of months, our district team will be meeting with students, parents, and teachers to hear your feedback and build a permanent policy that works best for our whole school community.
What Happens If a Device Is Used or Seen?
To keep things fair and clear for everyone, here are the steps that will happen if a student does not follow the rule:
First Time: The
device will be taken to the office where it will be stored in a safe place until it is returned to the student at the end of the day, and a parent or guardian will be informed.
Second Time: The
device will be taken to the office, and a parent or guardian will need to come to the school to pick it up at the end of the day.
Third Time (and beyond):
The device will be kept in the main office, and the student's family will meet with the principal to make a plan.
How Can Parents and Students Stay in Touch During the Day?
In an Emergency: Parents
or guardians who need to send an urgent message to their child during the school day can call the school’s main office. Staff will make sure your child gets the message right away.
Student Needs: If
a student needs to contact a parent or guardian during the school day, they can ask for permission to use a school phone in the main office.
Thank you for working with us to make this a wonderful, focused, and friendly school year!