Washington State Superintendent calls for updated cell phone policies in all school districts

The Washington State Superintendent is asking for school leaders across the state to update cell phone policies by the start of the 2025-26 school year.

According to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, districts are encouraged to implement school-wide policies limiting cell phone in classrooms use instead of leaving decisions about phones up to individual educators. This would create consistent expectations for students, staff and families.

State Superintendent Chris Reykdal said in the guidance document for schools that "reducing the use of cell phones in class improves concentration and learning, improves mental and physical health and reduces pressures caused by social media."

According to the guidance document , research shows a relationship between social media use and sleep difficulties and mental illness in youth.

Several districts in the state, including Spokane Public Schools and the Mead School District , have already adopted or are considering policies to limit the use of cell phones during instructional time.

RELATED: Spokane Public Schools said proposed phone policy aims to help battle youth mental illness

State Superintendent Reykdal said school leaders are encouraged to work with communities over the next year to create a plan. Districts are also asked to consider exceptions to phone policies for students with IEPs in place or when teachers use phones as part of a lesson plan.

"Our challenge to school leaders to revise their cell phone policies is part of a broader strategy to support our students' mental health and prepare them for success in our digital world," Reykdal said.

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