R3 Professional Development Sessions: Regulate, Refocus, Reconnect

Smartphones have become one of the biggest stressors in Tier 1 school expectations, contributing to classroom distraction, reduced attention, and increased educator stress. National data shows that more than half of public school leaders believe cell phones negatively impact students’ academic performance, mental health, and attention spans (National Center for Education Statistics, 2025). Teachers report cellphone distraction as a major classroom issue, with about 72% of high school educators identifying it as a significant problem (Pew Research Center, 2024). Additionally, research tracking student phone use revealed adolescents spend an average of 1.5 hours on smartphones during a typical school day, including non-instructional activities that compete with learning time (Seattle Children’s Research Institute, 2025). In California, Assembly Bill 3216 (the Phone-Free Schools Act) requires school districts to adopt policies by July 1, 2026, to limit or prohibit smartphone use while students are under school supervision.

Assembly Bill 3216 requires all California school districts to adopt a clear policy that limits or prohibits student smartphone use during the school day whenever students are under school supervision. The goal is to create a more focused and supportive learning environment by minimizing distractions and addressing concerns about academic engagement, social interaction, and student mental health.Under AB 3216, districts must have a formal smartphone policy in place by July 1, 2026. These policies are intended to reduce classroom disruptions and the negative impacts of constant digital engagement, while still ensuring students can access their phones in emergencies. Districts are also required to allow exceptions for medical needs, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and other legally protected circumstances.Importantly, the law does not require schools to use phone lock-up systems or any specific technology. Instead, districts retain flexibility in designing and enforcing policies that reflect their individual community needs.