Phone Away for the Day Policy

Whitman MS Phone Policy 2025-2026

We’re excited to share a new step we’re taking to help our students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Starting this school year, Whitman Middle School will be implementing a Phone Away for the Day policy.

Why are we doing this?
Research and feedback from our community show that having phones out during the school day can:

• Make it harder for students to focus and learn, even if phones aren’t being used.
• Increase feelings of anxiety, depression, and social isolation.
• Interrupt classrooms and reduce time spent connecting with friends face-to-face.

What does this mean for your child?

• Students will turn off phones and smart devices and keep them out of sight from the moment they enter the building until they leave.
• If a phone is seen in public spaces like hallways or lunchrooms, staff will handle it discreetly.
• Teachers will manage classroom phone use and may send students to the office if needed.

Supporting our students
We know many students use music or other tools to help with stress, and we’ll continue to support healthy ways for them to manage anxiety and build positive social connections.

How discipline will work
We believe in kindness and respect. Following Seattle Public Schools’ guidelines, here’s how we’ll respond to phone use during the day:

• First time: We’ll notify you and return the phone to your child at the end of the day.
• Second time: We’ll notify you again and return the phone to youat the end of the day.
• Third time: We’ll schedule a parent conference and discuss additional steps.

Together, we can create a focused, positive environment that helps every student grow beyond their screens. Thank you for your support and partnership.

As of August 27, 2025