PSUSD new student cell phone policy limits use of devices during school day

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - As students prepare to return to the classroom, Palm Springs Unified School District is updating its approach to cell phone use, joining school districts across California working to reduce distractions and increase student engagement.

The district’s updated policy limits student smartphone use during the school day, aiming to help students stay focused, interact more with classmates, and spend more time engaged in learning.

District leaders say the change comes as research has linked excessive smartphone use among adolescents with concerns, including higher rates of anxiety and depression. They say reducing phone distractions could help improve student well-being and create more opportunities for face-to-face interaction.

The policy still allows exceptions for emergencies, medical needs, Individualized Education Program (IEP) accommodations, and situations where teachers approve phone use as part of a lesson.

Palm Springs Unified is one of many districts making changes as California requires school districts to adopt policies limiting student smartphone use during the school day.