HONOLULU — The Hawai‘i State Board of Education has adopted a new statewide policy establishing consistent expectations for student cell phone use in public schools.

The policy is intended to balance the benefits of technology integration with the need to minimize classroom disruption and promote a safe and respectful learning environment. Board members noted that while the policy establishes statewide expectations, its impact will ultimately depend on a thoughtful and consistent implementation plan aligned with the Board’s commitment to student learning and well-being.

Minimum requirements under the Board policy are:

• Elementary school: Cell phone use is prohibited during school hours.
• Middle and intermediate school: Cell phone use is prohibited during school hours.
• High school: Cell phone use is prohibited during instructional time. Schools may exercise discretion regarding use outside of instructional time, including before and after school, and during designated breaks, recess, lunch and free periods.

The Department will now develop implementation guidelines to take effect beginning with the 2026–27 school year.

Hawaiʻi Board of Education adopts statewide policy on student cell phone use in public schools

In 2024, Parents for Public Schools of Hawaii conducted a survey, gathering thoughts and concerns about cellphone use in school. Read the results at https://ppshi.org/cellphones-in-school-survey-results/