25/26 Cell Phone Policy | Updates & Details

At Riverdale Ridge, our commitment to a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment isn’t just a vision—it’s a daily practice. As we continue to build classrooms that are structured, predictable, and rooted in mutual respect, we know that limiting distractions is essential. That’s why we’ve updated our cell phone policy for the 2025–26 school year. Aligned with district expectations and grounded in The Way of the Raven, this change helps us protect classroom time for connection, curiosity, and deep learning. Please take a moment to review the updated policy below to ensure your student is ready for a successful start.  

Use of Cell Phones & Ear Buds

Students may use cell phones and ear buds before and after school, as long as they do not create a distraction or disruption.  Students may also use cell phones and ear buds during passing periods and during the lunch break, as long as they do not create a distraction or a disruption or cause the student to be tardy for the next period.  Student use of cell phones and ear buds are not permitted during the entire class period–including in hallways–and will be secured in lockers, backpacks, or vehicles.

• At the start of every class, students are to turn OFF their cell phones and put them in their backpacks (If no backpacks, put them in a brown paper bag or other storage device that will be provided by the school).
  • Earbuds out of ears and put away
  • Smartwatches are okay to stay on
• Phones should be in the backpack the ENTIRE class period. This includes: 
  • Advisory
  • Restroom breaks
  • Working in hallway
  • When they finish all work

Violations of our cell phone/earbud policy will result in an immediate office referral and removal of the student from class.  If a phone is seen they will be escorted to the office and the deans will discuss the consequences with them

1st Offense:  

• If the student is calm they will come back to the class without their phone after meeting with a Dean.
• If the student refuses to adhere to the policy, then the infraction becomes defiance and the deans will handle the situation based off of the discipline matrix.

2nd Offense:  

• Student goes to ISS for the day

3rd + Offense: 

• Case by case basis using Discipline Matrix and district guidelines

No student, at any grade level, shall use a cell phone or electronic device to engage in, promote or facilitate any other conduct that violates the student code of conduct, other superintendent policies or regulations, or state or federal law. If the building principal or designee believes a student’s possession or use of a cell phone or other electronic devices may involve a violation of the law, the building principal or designee may also refer the matter to law enforcement.

27J Superintendent Policy JICJ

Use of Cell Phones/Electronic Devices on Buses
The use of cell phones and/or other electronic devices while riding to and from school, or to and from school-sponsored activities, is at the discretion of the bus driver.  Distracting behavior that creates an unsafe environment will not be tolerated.

FULL RAVEN GUIDE (Student and Family Handbook)