Show submenu for About
Show submenu for Students & Families
Show submenu for Departments
Show submenu for Community
Back To School
Show submenu for
Stock image of student on cell phone in classroom

HSD Adopts Cell Phone Policy to Begin Fall 2026

Hockinson School District

July 28, 2026

At its July 27 Regular Meeting, the HSD School Board adopted a new cell phone policy to help limit distractions during instructional time and create a standard approach to cell phones across all three schools in the district. The policy is based on input from families, staff and students. In a survey this spring, 85% of respondents supported limiting cell phones at school. 

Expectations regarding phone use vary by grade level: 

  • At HHES, personal electronic devices must be "off and away" at all times throughout the school day.

  • At HMS, personal electronic devices must be "off and away" during all instructional times and passing periods throughout the school day. Cell phone use is permitted during lunch.

  • At HHS, personal electronic devices must be "off and away" during all instructional times throughout the school day. Cell phone use is permitted during passing times and lunch only.

“Instructional time” is defined as the entire class period, from the beginning bell to the release bell. "Off and away" means that personal electronic devices are stored out of sight and not accessed (e.g., stored in a backpack or locker) and placed in a setting that does not disrupt students or the learning environment (e.g., turned off or placed in silent mode). 

In a Spring 2026 parent survey administered by the Citizens Advisory Committee, respondents indicated a high level of support for restricting cell phones in the classroom. Nearly 85% of parents agreed with the statement "Based on what you know today, how do you feel about cell phone limits in HSD schools."

Screenshot from April 2026 CAC Parent SurveySome important things for families to know:

  • This policy applies to all personal electronic devices.

  • During times when phone use is not allowed, students may contact their parents/guardians using phones in school offices.

  • Schools will follow all individualized education plans and 504 plans as written.

  • In the event of an emergency, students would be allowed to access their phones.

This change will help students stay engaged in class and contribute to positive environments in our schools. We appreciate your partnership to promote healthy phone use habits for Hockinson’s students.