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The Northshore School District will implement a new cell phone policy beginning with the 2025-26 school year, aiming to reduce distractions and address behavioral concerns such as cyberbullying and student altercations.

Under the new , personal mobile devices—including smartphones and smartwatches—will be prohibited in early childhood programs, elementary, and middle schools. Students in those grades will be expected to leave their devices at home or keep them turned off and stored throughout the entire school day if brought to school.

High school students will be able to use their devices before and after school, between classes, and at lunch. However, cell phone use will not be allowed during class time.

“Technology has undoubtedly changed and will continue to change how we communicate, engage, and participate in everyday life, including in schools,” the district said in a on its website. “It has created many opportunities, as well as challenges for parents, educators, and students as we navigate our new world.”

Some schools within the district have already started restricting cell phone use, the post stated.

Those schools “are seeing positive classroom changes such as increased focus, attention, comprehension, engagement, and improved academic performance,” the post read. “Additionally, teachers and staff report enhanced face-to-face peer interactions, reduced cyberbullying, fewer fights, and a decrease in social media-related issues. Students are also experiencing less stress and anxiety.”

Frank Lenzi is the News Director for ³ÉÈËXÕ¾ Newsradio. Read more of his stories here.