Dear Unit 4 Families and Staff,
We would like to share an important update with you regarding student cell phones and personal electronic devices. As we focus on learning and engagement and ensuring school is a safe place that is distraction free, beginning in the 2024-25 school year, cell phone and other personal device use will be limited, particularly during instructional time. The Unit 4 Board of Education along with our administrators have determined that limited use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices will provide our students with the greatest opportunity for social, emotional and academic success.
Inappropriate use of social media is a growing problem in schools throughout the country and our goal is to prioritize every Unit 4 student’s social, emotional and mental well being. In fact, several states have passed laws that ban the use of cell phones in schools. Locally, some neighboring districts have implemented similar guidelines and policies.
We understand that cell phones are an integral part of modern life, but our priority is the academic success and mental well-being of our students. We believe this practice will help students develop better concentration, reduce anxiety, and ultimately improve their overall school experience. Unit 4 provides every student with a Chromebook for schoolwork, so a cell phone is not essential for student learning.
Please click this link for the Unit 4’s Cell Phone and Electronic Device Guidelines web page. It includes important details and administrative guidelines that should be reviewed by all families.
Please know this initiative aims to foster a more focused and supportive learning environment. We appreciate your understanding and hope that you will partner with us by talking with your student to ensure the proper use of cell phones and personal devices while at school. Emergency situations will still allow for controlled cell phone use.
If you have any questions, contact Orlando Thomas, Executive Director of School Support and Student Assignment at thomasor@u4sd.org.
Sincerely,
Unit 4 School District