Back to school: Iowa students will return to class with cell phone restrictions
There are some big statewide changes taking effect in the 2025-26 school year after a busy legislative session. Gov. Kim Reynolds signed House File 782 into law on April 30, which requires schools to create a policy restricting the use of electronic devices.
While some districts around central Iowa already had bans on cell phones, it's now mandatory to restrict cell phones and some other electronic devices during class time.
In West Des Moines schools, officials adopted during instructional time and, depending on grade level, may be banned completely.
According to the West Des Moines policy:
- Elementary schools: The use of student personal electronic devices is strictly prohibited in all elementary schools for the duration of the school day.
- Junior high schools: The use of personal electronic devices is strictly prohibited during instructional time and assessments. The school administration may permit the use of personal electronic devices during lunch and before and after school. Students are responsible for ensuring their personal electronic devices are securely stored at all times.
- High school: The use of personal electronic devices is strictly prohibited during instructional time and assessments. The school administration may permit the use of personal electronic devices during lunch, passing time, and before and after school. Each high school in our district has caddies that may be used for storage during instructional time, and the office will have secured storage for devices confiscated during the school day.
The goal is to cut down on distractions and help students stay focused, according to West Des Moines Valley High School Principal Shane Christensen.
"We're going to talk (with students about) the why behind what we're doing and talk through what consequences could potentially be," Christensen said. "We're going to also provide support for some students who may have a hard time with not having these devices out and really help them figure out what’s behind it and how we can help them move past it."
He also told vlog that students can keep their smart watches on their wrist, but if they are caught using it for anything other than checking the time, or any other banned device, district leaders will use "a progressive discipline system."
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There are some exceptions to West Des Moines' ban, including for students whose first language isn't English and for those with an individualized education program. According to the law, parents can also petition their district for their child if they have a "legitimate" reason, like a mental or physical health need, that requires the device to be readily available.
Christensen says school staffers are ready to work with families to help students adjust in whatever way they may need. In the newsletter, he said: "Please start to wean from personal devices as the school year approaches. We can do this!"
Hoover High School was the first school in the Des Moines district to enforce a ban last year, and the Ottumwa School District has done the same with successful results.
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