Cell Phone and Personal Electronic Device Policy — 2026–2027 School Year
Beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, all classrooms at Clay City CUSD #10 — including study halls and instructional periods — will be designated Cell Phone and Personal Electronic Device-Free Zones. Students will be expected to secure their cell phones and any other personal electronic devices in a school-provided lockable storage case at the start of the school day.
Once collected, devices will be stored securely for the remainder of the school day: Junior High phones will be stored in the Unit Office, and High School phones will be stored in the High School Office.
High school students will have the opportunity to check out and access their devices during their lunch period. Upon returning from lunch, they will be required to re-secure their devices and return them to the High School Office.
We understand this marks a significant change, and we've prepared this posting to help make the transition as smooth as possible for students, staff, and families.
Why is Clay City CUSD #10 making this change?
Current research indicates that cell phones and other non-essential electronic devices can negatively impact student learning, contributing to:
Increased distraction
Cyberbullying and peer conflicts
Overstimulation and digital addiction
Physical and mental health concerns
Simply turning phones off or keeping them out of sight has proven ineffective — research shows that removing physical access is key to reducing their impact. We have a responsibility to respond to the growing issues of cyberbullying and adolescent anxiety while also fostering a healthy learning environment.
This change also brings consistency across classrooms and grade levels, so all students follow the same clear expectations and all staff can rely on a unified, district-wide procedure. This protocol is fully aligned with our student handbook and code of conduct.
What will a typical day look like for students?
Elementary: Cell phones are not permitted to be brought to school.
Junior High: Students will place their device in a school-provided lockable storage case at the start of the school day. Cases will be stored in the Unit Office for the remainder of the school day and returned to students at dismissal, including before the bus ride home.
High School:
Devices are secured in a school-provided lockable storage case at the start of the school day.
Cases are collected and stored securely in the High School Office during instructional hours.
Students may check out their device during lunch and must check it back in when lunch ends, returning it to the High School Office.
Use is otherwise limited to before the 8:09 bell and after 3:10.
Students with a classroom-approved reason (e.g., using a device for a project) may access their device temporarily with staff permission. After use, the device must be re-secured and returned to storage.
Earbuds are permitted for computer-based learning only.
Clay City CUSD #10 Policy Expectations
Maximize learning by keeping electronic devices out of sight and out of mind during class.
Reduce distractions to stay focused and engaged.
Support academic success through responsible electronic device management.
Thank you for your support as we work together to make Clay City CUSD #10 a more focused, student-centered learning environment.
A Note on Daily Procedures
The specific daily procedures for collecting and returning cell phones and personal electronic devices — including collection points, timing, and storage logistics — are subject to change if deemed necessary and appropriate by the district.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any exceptions to these expectations? Yes, exceptions include:
Emergencies where a student needs to contact a parent/guardian.
Specific times or situations approved by a teacher or administrator, such as using a device for educational purposes.
Arrangements for students who require a personal electronic device for medical assistance or a medical accommodation.
High School students may check out their device during their lunch period.
How can parents contact their children during school hours? Parents can contact the main school office if they need to reach their student during school hours. Office staff will relay any urgent messages. Students also have access to school-issued educational tools (Chromebooks, etc.) with student email addresses.
How will this benefit students?
Enhances focus and academic performance.
Reduces classroom distractions.
Encourages face-to-face social interaction.
Promotes a healthier school environment.
What are the consequences for violating this policy?
First offense — Device confiscated by school personnel; verbal warning. Device returned to the student at the end of the day in the school office.
Second offense — Device confiscated; detention assigned; parent/guardian notified and required to pick up the device in the school office.
Third offense — Device confiscated; detention assigned; parent/guardian notified and required to pick up the device. Students are prohibited from bringing the device to school for the next 10 school days; further violation during that period extends the restriction for the remainder of the school year, with additional consequences for insubordination.
Fourth and subsequent offense — Device confiscated; detention assigned; device is prohibited at school for the remainder of the school year; parent/guardian notified and required to pick up the device; additional consequences for insubordination.
What if a student needs their phone for educational purposes? A classroom teacher can request or grant permission for a student to retrieve and use their device for a specific educational purpose.
What is defined as a Personal Electronic Device? Any portable device that can be used to electronically initiate, receive, store, or view communication, information, images, or data.
What should students do with their cell phones during school hours? Students should keep devices powered off (or in airplane mode) and secured in their school-provided lockable storage case. Junior High cases will be stored in the Unit Office; High School cases will be stored in the High School Office during school hours.
Who can I contact with questions about this policy? For questions regarding Clay City CUSD #10's Cell Phone and Electronic Device policy, please contact your student's Principal or the Superintendent's office.
Why is this policy being implemented? This policy responds to Illinois Senate Bill 2427, which requires school districts to adopt a policy limiting the use of cell phones and personal electronic devices during instructional time and incorporating guidance for safe and secure storage during the school day.
Clay City CUSD #10 — 2026–2027 School Year