Electronic Device Task Force

The Electronic Device Task Force is a districtwide advisory group formed to examine how electronic devices are used in Puyallup School District schools and to recommend updates to Policy 3245, which governs student use of personal technology. The task force brings together teachers, students, families, administrators, and district staff to ensure that any changes to policy are balanced, research-informed, and reflective of our community’s needs.

This webpage serves as a dedicated platform for our community to stay updated on the task force's progress in examining and refining electronic device policies in the Puyallup School District.

Current Status

Following School Board approval, the Puyallup School District's updated Electronic Device Policy (3245) has been adopted and will be implemented beginning in the 2026–27 school year.

Under the adopted policy, personal electronic devices in all grades (PreK–12) are expected to remain "off and away" throughout the school day. While the policy has been approved, district leadership is currently developing implementation guidance, training materials, and communication resources to support students, staff, and families prior to the start of the school year.

Additional information regarding school-based procedures, student expectations, family resources, and frequently asked questions will be shared throughout the summer. The district appreciates the work of the Electronic Device Task Force, whose research, discussion, and community engagement helped inform the Board's consideration of Policy 3245 and the implementation planning now underway.

Purpose

The task force was charged with reviewing Policy 3245 and providing recommendations regarding student use of personal electronic devices. That work concluded with School Board adoption of an updated policy that will be implemented beginning in the 2026–27 school year.

Background

Last summer, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) released a brief encouraging school districts to adopt or amend policies restricting smart device use at school, particularly during instructional time. In response, 75% of Washington state school districts have implemented such policies, with 61% of these communities’ reporting satisfaction. This growing movement is driven by concerns around student learning, mental health, and the increasing accessibility of smart devices.

Recognizing the importance of this topic, the Puyallup School District has been examining our own practices regarding electronic devices. The Electronic Device Task Force has been diligently working to ensure a consistent and informed approach to revising Policy 3245, which governs the use of electronic devices within our schools. Key discussion points include a clear definition of electronic devices, consistent enforcement, and active engagement with all stakeholders.

Timeline

• August 2024: Memorandum of Understanding with Education Association
• September 2024: Ballou Junior High School ‘Away for the Day’ pilot begins
• December 2024: Steering committee makes recommendations to district leadership for next steps
• January 2025: Committee recommendations shared with individual board members.
• June 2025: School Board President directs the district to develop a plan for community engagement and implementation in the 2026-2027 school year
• September 2025: Task Force reconvenes; community engagement/feedback phase begins
• January 20, 2026: School Board Report
• Spring 2026: School Board adopts revised Policy 3245
• Summer 2026: Implementation planning, staff training, and family communications
• September 2026: Districtwide implementation begins