Surrey Public School District
Cell Phone / Electronic Personal Device Policy Update
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We want to inform you of an important change taking effect at the start of the upcoming school year. In response to a recent change in state law and in accordance with newly adopted District Policy FFI, student access to cell phones, Bluetooth earpieces, and smartwatches will be restricted during the school day.
From the first bell to the last bell, these personal devices must remain inaccessible to students. To help students comply with this policy, Surrey Public School will implement the Backpack/Pouch System. Under this system:
Students will store their phones in a backpack or pouch placed in their locker at the beginning of the school day.
Phones must remain secured and out of use until the end of the school day.
Students will not be allowed to carry or use phones, smartwatches, or earpieces during school hours.
As an alternative, students may choose to leave their phone at home.
This policy applies to all students in grades K-12.
We recognize that this may be a significant adjustment for some families. However, we believe this step is essential to promote a focused, respectful, and safe learning environment. The policy is intended to:
Reduce distractions
Support student mental health and well-being
Preserve instructional time
Foster positive interpersonal interactions