Jacob Farmer / For Nisqually Valley News
Students at Rainier Middle School and Rainier High School can expect new cellphone restrictions to start the school year.
According to John Beckman, Rainier’s middle and high school principal, both schools will be implementing an “off and away” policy during instructional time, meaning that phones are expected to be powered off and put away while class is in session.
Despite the restrictions, Rainier is not eliminating phones from its campus.
“Students will continue to have access to their phones during passing periods and lunch breaks,” Beckman wrote in a letter to students and families. “There are also phones available for student use in each office. If a parent or guardian needs to reach their child during the school day, please contact the appropriate school office and we will ensure your message is delivered promptly.”
The new policy is part of a broad shift in how schools — and states — across the country have chosen to address cellphone use inside the classroom and on campus. According to Ballotpedia, as of Aug. 22, 26 states have banned or limited cellphones in classrooms.
Although Washington state does not mandate a specific policy restricting cellphones, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) said in a Aug. 21 news release that 75% of the state’s districts indicated they’ll have a policy by the start of the 2025-26 school year.
“Our educators, parents, and families are seeing, on a daily basis, how students’ learning is disrupted — repeatedly — by their smart devices,” State Superintendent Chris Reykdal said in the release. “As an education system, we have a responsibility to protect the learning environment, removing disruptions and ensuring our policies are updated regularly to address emerging needs.”
In his letter, Principal Beckman echoed the state superintendent’s sentiments.
“Over the past several years, schools across the country have seen how cellphone use during the school day can create distractions, interfere with learning, and sometimes contribute to unhealthy social and emotional behaviors,” Beckman wrote. “At Rainier, we want to make the most of the time we have together in classrooms; focusing on learning, building strong relationships, and supporting student growth without unnecessary interruptions.”
As suggested by the OSPI’s recent release, the decision by Beckman and the Rainier School District is similar to those made by other districts in Southwest Washington.
To conclude his letter to Rainier students and families, Principal Beckman wrote, “We believe this change will help us create a healthier and more productive learning environment for all students. Thank you for supporting us as we work together to provide the best educational experience possible for your children.
