As students prepare to return to the classroom, the Nye County School District is reminding families that its existing policy restricting the use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices during the school day remains in effect.
District officials said the reminder is intended to help students and parents begin the school year with a clear understanding of expectations designed to reduce distractions and support student learning.
The policy, first implemented districtwide in January 2025 and later updated to clarify the use of AI-enabled smart glasses and other wearable technology, requires students to keep personal electronic devices powered off and out of sight from the time they arrive on campus until the final bell.
According to the district, the goal is to create classrooms where students can remain focused on instruction and develop the skills needed to become adaptable, persistent and self-directed learners. Superintendent Dr. Joseph Gent said the district remains focused on raising student achievement above state and national averages while minimizing classroom distractions.
Under the policy, students must keep cell phones, earbuds, headphones, smart glasses and other electronic entertainment or recording devices powered off and stored in backpacks, lockers or bags throughout the instructional day. Smartwatches are permitted only if they remain in airplane mode until the end of the school day.
The district also emphasized that students are prohibited from photographing or recording other students or staff members during the school day without permission from school administration. Exceptions may be granted for assemblies, performances and other school-sponsored celebratory events when approved by school leadership.
Additionally, the use of any device capable of taking or transmitting photos, video or audio is strictly prohibited in locker rooms, restrooms and testing areas at any time.
School officials noted that any visible cell phone, earbuds, headphones or other electronic entertainment or recording device will be considered “in use” and may be confiscated by administrators or their designees. For a first offense, the device will be returned to the student at the end of the school day. Any subsequent violations will require a parent or legal guardian to retrieve the device.
The district is encouraging parents to review the policy with their children before school begins to help ensure a smooth start to the year.
“By doing so, we help foster a positive, safe, and respectful learning environment where every student’s voice can be heard,” the district stated in the release. Officials also thanked parents for their continued partnership in supporting student success.
