Present to Learn. Focused to Lead.

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, Belvidere Community Unit School District 100 will implement a new Cell Phone & Electronic Device Use Procedure, approved by the Board of Education on July 21.

Developed by a district-wide research team—including staff, students, parents, and administrators—the policy establishes consistent, age-appropriate expectations for personal device use during the school day to better support student learning, wellbeing, and safety.

This procedure supports both D100’s strategic plan goals and Board Policy 7:190, which prohibits the use of electronic devices in ways that disrupt the educational environment or violate student conduct rules.

The new procedure is designed to:

• Align with current best practice research on the harmful impacts of cell phone use on student learning, focus, and health
• Establish clear, consistent expectations across classrooms and schools
• Support student engagement, learning and healthy digital habits
• Ensure fairness and reduce the burden of enforcement on individual staff members

Key Guidelines

• All personal devices must be put away (not out or in use) during instructional periods.
• Personal devices include cell phones, smartwatches, wireless earbuds, and similar items. District-issued technology is not included.
• High school students may use devices before and after school, during lunch, and during passing periods. During class, cell phones must be stored near the student in a pouch system that is available in each classroom.
• Middle school students must store devices in their lockers throughout the day. Use is allowed before and after school, and during lunch.
• Elementary students must store devices in their lockers for the entire school day.

Exceptions & Emergency Use

• Students with IEPs or 504 plans may have accommodations for device use.
• Certain academic programs may use devices under staff supervision with administrative approval.
• Devices may be used in classrooms for defined emergencies, including medical issues or safety threats. Routine matters (e.g., forgotten items) should be handled through the school office.

A tiered consequence system will apply for violations, with consistent enforcement across schools. Misuse may result in device storage in the office or a secure pouch, or restricted use.

Thank you for your partnership as we work together to help students thrive by being present and engaged in learning every day.