Lake Oswego SD bans cell phones during school hours

LAKE OSWEGO, Ore. (KPTV) – The Lake Oswego School District will no longer allow the use of smartphones during the school day across all schools.

Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Schiele informed families and students about the cell phone usage policy change in a letter Wednesday morning. Schiele says the school board is in the final stages of completing the policy change and they anticipate it will be in place before the start of the 2024-25 school year.

This is the first school district in the Portland metro area to put this ban in place.

“Implementing this change is rooted in a commitment to our students’ academic success and overall well-being. Extensive research, including the studies referenced below, indicates that cell phones in schools can be a significant barrier to learning and personal development,” Schiele said in her letter.

In the letter, Schiele referenced a report that says 95% of teens have access to smartphones and that leads to increased distractions during class.

Schiele says they understand there may be circumstances where exceptions to the policy are necessary, including health, safety and emergency reasons. Exceptions need approval from the principal or when use is stipulated in a student’s individualized education program (IEP) or 504 plan, according to the school district.

LOSD students will continue to have access to computers and school-issued Chromebooks.

“Families’ support will be vital in making this transition smooth and effective. We encourage you to discuss the importance of this policy with your child, including how cell phones can be a distraction, increase opportunities for bullying, and be psychologically and physically addicting,” Schiele said in her letter. “Please refrain from texting or calling your child during school hours. If you need to reach your child, please do so through the main office. Phone numbers are on the school websites.”

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Portland Public Schools introduced a draft policy regarding restricted cellphone use in schools at a committee meeting, Wednesday night.

Portland Public Schools is also considering a new policy to restrict cell phone use in classrooms. A draft policy was presented to the school board during a committee meeting in July.

No decision has been made on the potential policy for PPS, but one is expected before the start of the new school year.