Alpine School District (ASD) collected extensive feedback from approximately 4,500 parents and 4,700 students to evaluate the impact of new policies restricting digital devices in schools. The initiative followed a request for feedback sent last October to all students in fourth grade and above, as well as their parents.
Rich Stowell, director of communications for Alpine School District, stated that cell phones in classrooms are a major concern for parents and noted that the feedback helps the district understand community needs to develop future policies.
The district utilized a tool allowing participants to share thoughts through text, voice memo, or video recording. Parents generally supported the restrictions, noting benefits such as increased student focus and enhanced learning. One parent of a middle school student expressed gratitude for the rules-based restrictions during instructional time, stating that children's attention spans and quality of learning were noticeably higher.
Another parent reported that the restrictions created a better learning environment where students listen to teachers more effectively. These policy changes followed Governor Cox signing SB 178, which prohibits students from using cellphones, smartwatches, or emerging technology during classroom hours. In response, the ASD board of education revised policy 5250 to take effect this school year.
However, some parents expressed frustration regarding inconsistent enforcement, difficulty obtaining exceptions for students with special needs, and concerns about contacting children during emergencies.
Student feedback was more mixed. While some students reported no change in grades or improved academic performance due to better focus, others reported lower grades linked to stress, anxiety, or challenges completing assignments that required phone-based tools.
A 12th-grade student noted being more productive and less stressed without the urge to check a phone during class.
Rich Stowell stated that the policies are designed for students based on research regarding the harms of smartphones to adolescents. He added that the district views the collected data as a roadmap for continuous growth.
The revised policy 5250 implements a tiered approach, providing more restrictions at the elementary level and increased freedom in high school. This framework was designed to balance flexibility with the requirements of state law while reflecting input from families and educators.
