Dear Sutherlin Families,
Governor Tina Kotek recently issued an executive order banning student cell phone use during the school day in all Oregon public schools. The purpose of this statewide change is to support student learning, improve well-being, and help students feel more connected to their school community. We know this will be a big shift for students and families, and we are committed to supporting you through the transition.
Starting September 2, 2025, Sutherlin School District will implement our Student Personal Device Policy in alignment with this executive order and guidance from the Oregon Department of Education.
What the Policy Says
During the school day — from 7:55 am to 3:12 pm at SMS, SVOA, and SHS, and 7:55 am to 2:25 pm at West and East — students may not use or access:
Cell phones
Smartwatches
Gaming devices or handheld gaming systems
Tablets or personal laptops (unless approved for school use)
Wireless earbuds or headphones (unless part of an approved lesson)
Any device capable of texting, calling, browsing the internet, or communicating with others
All devices must be turned off and stored out of sight (in a backpack, classroom pouch, or locker) from the first bell to the final bell unless a school administrator grants permission for an educational or medical reason.
Emergencies
If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call the school office. If your student needs to contact you, they can request to use the office phone.
Accessibility
Not all students own a personal device, and our policy will not assume or require device ownership.
Students with medical or accessibility needs documented in a 504 Plan or IEP will be provided with necessary accommodations.
Students may use personal phones and electronic devices while riding school buses or during district-approved transportation for school-related activities.
Consequences for Misuse
We will address device violations with supportive, student-centered approaches. Consequences may include:
A verbal reminder or redirection
Temporary confiscation of the device (keep on the teacher's desk)
The device held in the office until the end of the day
Parent/guardian pickup for repeated violations
Device check-in at the office each morning for ongoing concerns
Refusal to turn over a device will be considered insubordination and may result in detention, loss of extracurricular activities, or other disciplinary measures. Students will not be suspended solely for violating the device policy.
We recognize this change will take time to adjust to. Still, research and experience show that limiting personal device use during school can improve focus, reduce distractions, and strengthen connections among students and staff. Thank you for working with us to make our schools safe, supportive, and focused on learning.
If you have questions or feedback, don't hesitate to get in touch with your school principal or the district office.
Sincerely,
Terry Prestianni
Sutherlin School District