The Murray City School District is implementing new expectations for student cell phones and personal technology as the new school year begins. The policy aims to minimize distractions in the classroom, improve student engagement, and maintain safe learning environments.
Technology rules vary by grade level within the district.
For elementary schools covering grades K through 6, students are not permitted to possess or use cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, or AI/smart glasses at any time during the school day. This includes lunch, recess, assemblies, field trips, and passing periods. The district recommends that parents leave these devices at home when possible.
In junior high schools (grades 7-9) and high schools (grades 10-12), personal technology is banned during class time. However, students in these grades may use devices during lunch, after school, passing periods, assemblies, or approved field trips. Use is also permitted if a teacher explicitly authorizes it for instructional purposes.
For students allowed to bring devices to school, all technology must be silenced and stored in a backpack or designated classroom area during instruction. Teachers will not use device access as a reward, and use is not permitted during class free time.
The district has established specific exceptions for device use involving documented medical needs, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Section 504 Plans, or Individual Language Development Plans (ILD
Ps). Additionally, devices may be used for emergency situations or to access the SafeUT Crisis Line.
In the event of a school emergency, students are permitted to contact parents or guardians once it is safe to do so.
The district has prohibited the use of personal devices for cheating, harassment, intimidation, or invading privacy. Violations may result in school disciplinary action and potential law enforcement involvement. District administrators are asking parents to review these expectations with their children before the first day of school.
