Updated Electronic Device Policy: What Families Can Expect for the 2026-27 School Year

As we get ready for the 2026-27 school year, Puyallup School District is preparing students, staff and families for updated expectations around personal electronic devices during the school day. 

The updated policy was approved by the School Board and will begin with the 2026-27 school year. Under the policy, personal electronic devices for students in grades PreK-12 are expected to be “off and away” during the school day. This change is intended to help students stay focused, support their well-being, and create learning environments where students can be present and engaged. 

Students will not be expected to adjust to these expectations on their own. During the first weeks of school, staff will take time to teach and practice routines with students, explain why the expectations matter, and help students understand what to do if they need support during the day. 

Families will still be able to reach their student when needed. Schools will continue to use office communication processes during the school day, and emergency communication will remain a priority. More information will be shared by schools, including what the expectations will look like in practice and how school-day communication will work. 

The district’s Electronic Device Task Force reviewed current practices, community feedback, and policy considerations before the Board adopted the updated policy. Families can learn more by visiting the Electronic Device Task Force webpage. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “off and away” mean? 

“Off and away” means personal electronic devices should not be used during the school day unless a staff member gives permission or an exception applies. Additional school-specific routines and student expectations will be shared with families as the school year begins. 

Why is the district updating expectations for personal electronic devices? 

The policy is intended to support focused learning, student well-being and safety, and consistent schoolwide expectations. The district has been reviewing this topic through the Electronic Device Task Force, which examined student use of personal technology and provided recommendations related to Policy 3245. Electronic Device Task Force - Puyallup School District 

How will students learn the new expectations? 

Schools will teach expectations at the beginning of the school year using common language, routines, and student-facing materials. The first weeks of school will focus on helping students understand, practice and adjust to the expectations. 

How can families contact students during the school day? 

Families will continue to contact schools through established school office procedures during the school day. Additional details about school-day communication will be shared with families before implementation begins. 

What if my student has a medical, safety or accessibility need? 

Students with documented medical, safety, or accessibility needs will continue to receive individualized support through applicable school processes. Additional implementation guidance will clarify how exceptions and accommodations will be handled consistently. 

Will students still use district technology for learning? 

Yes. The updated policy focuses on personal electronic devices. District-provided learning tools and instructional technology will continue to be used as directed by staff. 

Will expectations be the same at every school? 

The district is preparing shared guidance and communication materials, so expectations are implemented consistently across schools. Schools will use district-approved language and common routines to support a clear and aligned rollout. 

Where can families find more information? 

Families can visit the district’s Electronic Device Task Force webpage for current information, background and implementation updates. Electronic Device Task Force - Puyallup School District