Steamboat Springs School District Launches New Cell Phone Policy to Foster Focused Learning and Student Well-Being

Steamboat Springs High School (SSHS) and Yampa Valley High School are excited to announce a revised cell phone policy aimed at promoting a more focused and supportive learning environment for students. Starting second semester, the new policies seek to reduce distractions in the classroom while supporting mental health, academic performance and social connections among students.

This change comes after a semester-long study, extensive research, and feedback from the community, including educators, students, parents, and staff. The decision to implement the new policy is grounded in data highlighting the negative impacts of excessive cell phone use on students’ academic success and well-being.

“We are committed to creating an environment that allows students to engage deeply with their studies and with each other, free from the distractions of technology,” said Jay Hamric, Principal of SSHS. “By adopting this new policy, we hope to provide a space where students can truly focus, collaborate and thrive.”

The Process Behind the Policy
The revised policy follows a thorough review process by the SSHS Climate and Culture Committee. The committee carefully considered the perspectives of students, staff, and parents, and conducted a comprehensive review of current research on cell phone use in schools. This included:

• Student Input: Members of the Sailor Senate met with students and administrators from Summit County High School, which has successfully implemented a phone-free policy, to learn from their experiences.
• Parent and Staff Feedback: SSHS held a Parent Information Committee meeting, where discussions included the impact of cell phone use on school culture and mental health. Additionally, surveys from parents and staff were carefully analyzed.
• Research: Educators at SSHS reviewed studies on the effects of cell phones on adolescent development and school performance to inform the decision-making process.

Key Features of the New Policy
The new policy requires all students to keep their cell phones "Off and Out of Sight" during class time. Phones must remain off and stored away in students' bags or lockers as soon as they enter the classroom until the class is over. Students who violate the policy will follow a graduated system of consequences.

Building Community and Engagement
In addition to the new policy, SSHS is exploring new ways to encourage student engagement and reduce dependence on technology. The school is introducing "Phone-Free Fridays," where students can participate in fun activities during open periods. 

“We trust that this will be a great investment of time and effort, and will indeed boost academic performance, support better mental health and foster healthier social connections," shared YVHS Principal, Kristyl Boies.

How Families Can Support the Policy
Schools encourage parents and guardians to partner in reinforcing healthy tech habits at home by establishing device-free zones, limiting personal screen time and by storing phones outside of the bedroom. Families can also be involved by communicating with schools to understand how the policy is impacting students' learning experiences.