Updated Mobile Device Policy

TUSD Community:

In Travis Unified our mission is to “achieve educational excellence through high-quality programs and rigorous instruction” so that all students succeed, and we believe that mobile devices are a hindrance to meeting this charge. There is growing consensus across the globe that student use of mobile devices, including smartphones, warrants thoughtful and thorough policy consideration for the sake of the academic and social-emotional well-being of young people.

In light of this, TUSD has adopted and will implement the policies discussed below, not as a punishment to students, but to allow them to be fully engaged in the learning, both academic and social, that our schools foster. We are committed to implementing these policies by partnering with our families, staff, and students, as we believe their input and participation will be critical to our success.

During its special meeting on August 4, 2025, the Governing Board of the Travis Unified School District voted and approved the following policies regarding student Cell Phone and Personal Device Usage for the 2025-2026 school year:

TK - 5th Grade

The current practice at our elementary schools, “off and away during the day” will continue and will be codified in Board Policy. Starting at the beginning of this school year, there will be a full day restriction, which means students are prohibited from using personal electronic devices, including smart phones, cell phones, smart watches and ear buds throughout the entire school day from the first bell to the last. Students will continue to have access to devices required for medical or IEP reasons, as well as during emergencies, and students may also contact parents under staff supervision in the office on an as needed basis.

Grades 6 - 8

The current practice at Golden West will continue at the beginning of this school year, and a full instructional day restriction will be phased in with full implementation after winter break.

Starting on January 1, 2026 students will be prohibited from using personal electronic devices, including smart phones, cell phones, smart watches and ear buds throughout the entire school day, including lunch time and passing periods. Students will continue to have access to devices required for medical or IEP reasons, as well as during emergencies, and students may also contact parents under staff supervision in the office on an as needed basis.

Grades 9 - 12

Current school practices at TEC and Vanden will continue at the beginning of this year.

Starting on January 1, 2026, students will be prohibited from using personal electronic devices, including smart phones, cell phones, smart watches, and ear buds during scheduled class periods (instructional time) and any other time students are expected to be engaged in a learning activity. Students will maintain the ability to use their phones for appropriate uses during lunch time and passing periods.

Students will continue to have access to devices required for medical or IEP reasons and can continue to contact parents under staff supervision in the office.

The District will continue to keep staff, students, parents, and the community informed regarding implementation of these policies for the 2025-2026 school year.

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In This Section

TK - 5th Grade

Grades 6 - 8

Grades 9 - 12

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