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Board of Education Approves Policy Supporting Phone-Free School Days

Photo of mom and child looking at a mobile phone.

At its October 15, 2025, meeting, the Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) Board of Education approved Board Policy 5131.8: Mobile Communication Devices Phone-Free School Day.

The new policy aligns with California’s Phone-Free School Act (AB 3216), which requires all public school districts to limit or prohibit student phone use during school hours by July 1, 2026. The policy is designed to minimize classroom distractions, elevate academic performance, and prioritize student mental health and well-being by encouraging in-person interaction and healthy technology habits.

Under this policy, student phone use is not allowed during regular school hours, with limited exceptions for emergencies, health-related needs, or instructional purposes authorized by educators. Phone use is permitted before and after school hours and during extracurricular activities when appropriate.

By implementing this policy, CVESD reaffirms its commitment to creating focused, engaging, and supportive classrooms for all students. To view the full Board Policy, click here.