Surveys

There is currently no state law that standardizes the use of mobile phones and other personal technology devices across schools, although lawmakers are progressing in that direction. Proposed limitations serve to potentially reduce distractions, improve student engagement, decrease outside influences on mental health and enhance overall well-being. This survey was open to all community members from Jan. 12 – 18, 2026. 

• Personal technology devices can include cell phones and personal laptops.
• Wearable technology devices can include smartwatches, earbuds, intelligent eyewear, and personal activity monitors, such as a Fitbit.

*Legal exceptions allowable: ADA, IEPs, 504s, students with medical needs

Do you have concerns about student use of personal technology devices (cell phones and laptops) in school?

• 62.5% - Yes. I believe personal technology devices can distract students in school.

• 16.9% - No. Overall, I do not have an issue with student use of personal technology devices at this time.

• 20.6% - Maybe. Policies should be in place.

• 46.6% - Yes. I believe wearable technology devices can distract students in school.

• 25.9% - No. Overall, I do not have an issue with student use of wearable technology devices at this time.

• 27.5% -  Maybe. Policies should be in place. 

RCS current policy states in part, that students may possess personal technology devices on their person but the devices must be powered off and kept out of sight in backpacks, purses or lockers except during the following times: before and after the regular school day; during the student’s scheduled lunch time; as directed by a teacher or other professional staff member for education purposes; in the case of emergency during the school day.

• 49.1 % - The policy should remain the same
• 44.8% - The policy should be more restrictive.

• 6.1 % - The policy should be less restrictive.

 

• 60.9% - Yes, teachers and school administrators should be able to use their judgment to determine use for instructional purposes.

• 39.1% - No, the policy should not be flexible.

 

• 69.5% - Yes, policies should be different for each learning level.

• 30.5% - No, policies should be the same across the district.

 

• 77.2 % - The entire school day
• 15.6% - Only use during lunch, between classes and in case of emergency.

• 7.2% - No school wide restrictions. Individual educators and staff decide when students can use devices in class.

 

• 45.1% - The entire school day
• 44.7% - Only use during lunch, between classes and in case of emergency

• 10.2% - No school wide restrictions. Individual educators and staff decide when students can use devices in class.

 

• 54. 6% - Only use during lunch, between classes and in case of emergency.
• 23.3% - The entire school day

• 22.1% - No school wide restrictions. Individual educators and staff decide when students can use devices in class.