The district said the restrictions are intended to reduce distractions and address concerns about the effect of excessive smartphone, personal device and social media use on students. Designed by Magnific

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - Gridley Unified School District students will face new restrictions on when they can use cellphones and other personal electronic devices on campus this school year, with the rules varying by grade level.

The district will hold two meetings for parents before the start of school to explain the cellphone policy and discuss online safety. Parents of middle and high school students can attend at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 18 at the Guardian Building. A second meeting for elementary school parents will begin at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 19 at the same location.

Under the district's policy, students in transitional kindergarten through eighth grade must keep personal electronic devices turned off and stored in a backpack or bag throughout the school day. The restriction also applies during before- and after-school programs.

High school students must keep their devices turned off and stored during instructional time and passing periods. Students in grades nine through 12 may use personal devices during the designated nutritional break and lunch period.

The restrictions cover more than cellphones. The policy applies to smartphones, smartwatches, smart glasses, gaming devices and headphones.

For all students, devices must remain stored in backpacks or personal bags while using restrooms, participating in field trips or taking part in work-based learning during the school day.

The policy includes exceptions for emergencies or a perceived threat of danger, permission from an administrator, health needs determined by a licensed physician or accommodations specifically included in a student's Individualized Education Program or Section 504 plan.

The district said the restrictions are intended to reduce distractions and address concerns about the effect of excessive smartphone, personal device and social media use on students.

Unauthorized device use may result in confiscation, with administrators determining whether the device will be returned to the student or a parent or guardian. Teachers may also require students to place devices in designated classroom storage areas with prior administrative approval.

The district encourages parents who need to reach their children during the school day to contact the school office, and students may use a school-provided phone to contact family members during an emergency.

The Aug. 18 and 19 meetings will also address risks students may encounter outside school, including cyberbullying, grooming, sextortion, coercion and exposure to violent content through social media, online games and other platforms.

Parents will receive information about recognizing concerning online behavior, using safety tools on devices and home networks and talking with children about online activity. The sessions will also cover warning signs, preserving digital evidence and reporting concerns when an online incident occurs.