New Cell Phone Policy 2024-2025
August 8th, 2024
At the High School
Students will be allowed to have cell phones on campus. However, they are expected to be “Away for the Day” inside a school-issued pouch and turned off to prevent distractions. The cell phone policy update applies to all Perry classrooms, hallways, restrooms, cafeterias, and other school property during the school day.
The elementary will continue to be a no cell phone zone.
No changes in policy or practice at the elementary.
Why is our district adopting a phone-free policy?
The Ohio Legislature signed a new law in May 2024 that required all Ohio school districts to review their cell phone policy and to consider enacting a ban on student cell phone use during the school day. This summer, the Perry Board of Education independently viewed the most recent research surrounding screen time and the impacts of social media on our youth.
In a world where distractions are constant, the Board has chosen to prioritize a learning environment where our children can truly thrive, both academically and emotionally. As your superintendent, I commend the Perry Board of Education for their work toward implementing an "Away for the Day: No Cell from Bell-to-Bell "policy.
The Board of Education's decision is a forward-thinking move grounded in the latest research on student well-being and academic success. Their decision reflects a deep care for our students' growth, recognizing that by reducing screen time, we are giving them the gift of focus, connection, and a stronger foundation for their futures.
You can read a copy of the draft policy and day-to-day implementation procedures by clicking here. The Perry Board of Education will reconvene on August 14, 2024 to finalize the policy. Perry residents are encouraged to submit any feedback prior to that date for the Board to consider and can access the link to the form by clicking here.
Gratefully,
Kelly L. Schooler, Ed.D.
Superintendent