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Technology Use Policy

Sunnyvale School District Mobile Communication Device Board Policy

Effective July 1, 2026

The Sunnyvale School District Board of Education adopted Board Policy 5131.8: Mobile Communication Devices to establish consistent expectations for student use of smartphones and other mobile communication devices at school.

The policy aligns with California’s Phone-Free Schools Act and supports focused, safe and engaging learning environments across the District.

Districtwide Expectations for Students

The policy applies to all Sunnyvale School District students in grades TK-8.

Students shall not use smartphones or other mobile communication devices:

  • While at a school site
  • During the school day
  • While under the supervision and control of a District employee

The District may establish additional measures or procedures to limit student access to mobile communication devices on campus. School sites will communicate specific implementation and enforcement procedures to students and families.

Privacy and Responsible Use

Smartphones and other mobile communication devices may not be used in any way that infringes upon another person’s privacy.

Students may also be subject to disciplinary action for off-campus device use when that use:

  • Threatens the safety of students or staff
  • Poses a danger to District property
  • Substantially disrupts school activities

Unauthorized Use and Device Confiscation

When a student uses a mobile communication device without authorization, the student may be subject to disciplinary action.

A District employee may temporarily confiscate and securely store a device that is used without authorization. The device will be returned in accordance with the school’s established procedures.

The District is not responsible for personal mobile communication devices that are lost, stolen or damaged while on campus or at a school activity.

Legal Exceptions

California law allows students to possess or use a mobile communication device under specific circumstances, including:

  • During an emergency or in response to a perceived threat of danger
  • When a teacher or administrator grants permission for an instructional or other approved purpose
  • When a licensed physician or surgeon determines that the device is necessary for the student’s health and well-being
  • When possession or use is required by the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP)

Supporting Students and Families

District staff will work with Columbia Middle School and Sunnyvale Middle School to establish a standardized implementation process for students, families, and staff.

Planned support will include:

  • Parent and caregiver engagement sessions focused on healthy screen use
  • Staff communication about modeling healthy screen habits in the classroom
  • Student education explaining the purpose and benefits of limiting screen time during the school day

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Sunnyvale School District adopt this policy?

Assembly Bill 3216, also known as the Phone-Free Schools Act, requires California public school districts, county offices of education and charter schools to adopt policies limiting or prohibiting student smartphone use during school hours by July 1, 2026.

Board Policy 5131.8 establishes a consistent Districtwide standard while supporting student learning, well-being, safety and engagement.

Does the policy apply to all students?

Yes. The policy applies to all Sunnyvale School District students in grades TK-8 while they are at school or under the supervision of a District employee.

What happens if a student uses a device without permission?

The student may be subject to disciplinary action, and a District employee may temporarily confiscate the device. Each school will communicate its specific procedures to students and families.

Can a student use a device during an emergency?

Yes. Students may use a mobile communication device during an emergency or in response to a perceived threat of danger.

Are there exceptions for medical or educational needs?

Yes. Exceptions are provided when device possession or use is necessary for a student’s health and well-being, required by an IEP, or authorized by a teacher or administrator.

How often will the policy be reviewed?

The Board will review and update the policy as necessary at least once every five years. Future reviews will include stakeholder participation to ensure the policy remains responsive to the needs of the Sunnyvale School District community.

Review the Adopted Policy

To review the complete adopted Board Policy 5131.8: Mobile Communication Devices CLICK HERE.