Long Beach Unified Approves Groundbreaking Cellphone Policy

The Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education approved a new policy, with all members present voting in favor: "Reclaiming Attention: Limiting Distractions, Supporting Wellness," scheduled to take full effect on January 26, 2026.

The policy regulates student phone use in schools to enhance learning, support mental health, and strengthen safety. This initiative is in accordance with AB 3216, the Phone-Free Schools Act, which mandates that all school districts in California establish a phone policy by July 2026.

“With clear evidence from health experts, a mandate from the Legislature, and our District’s commitment to excellence and equity, we are taking bold steps to safeguard students,” said Superintendent Dr. Jill A. Baker. “By moving ahead of the state’s timeline, we are reclaiming classroom focus, supporting mental health, and prioritizing the safety of every child in our care.”

Chris Itson, the Program Administrator for the Communications Department at LBUSD, spearheaded the campaign in conjunction with Lee Underwood, a teacher at Millikan High School and recipient of the 2022 Teacher of the Year award. Together, they collaborated with the Policy Development Workgroup, composed of central office staff, principals, educators, parents, and students, to ensure that the policy is clear, effectively implemented, and developed through a robust engagement process.

Under Itson's leadership, communication efforts were aligned during the 18-month research and collaboration period, adhering to the District's goal of enhancing student learning and well-being while addressing issues of cyberbullying and improving school safety.

Extensive engagement began in 2024 through surveys, workshops, and community conversations with students, families, staff, and partners. This robust engagement will continue with family town halls, facilitation guides for schools, and targeted communications to ensure clarity and community partnership.

“The true work of this policy must go beyond enforcement,” said Lee Underwood, member of the LBUSD Policy Workgroup. “It’s about engaging families and students in meaningful dialogue to reimagine technology use and build healthier learning environments.”

Key guidelines of the policy include:

• TK–8: Devices must remain powered off and stored in backpacks/bags for the entire school day, including before and after-school programs.
• 9–12: Devices must remain powered off and stored during instructional time, from the beginning to the end of each class period.
• All Students: Devices are prohibited in restrooms, locker rooms, on field trips, and during other school-day learning experiences.

Exceptions will apply for emergencies, for medical needs, or accommodations under IEPs or 504 Plans. 

Pilot schools will initiate the policy in September, with a districtwide implementation on January 26, 2026. With this step, Long Beach Unified will become one of the first large districts in California to exceed the state requirement, reflecting the District's commitment to excellence, equity, and the well-being of its students and staff.