Personal Electronic Device Policy

Personal Electronic Device Policy - New for the 25.26 School Year

Dear Midtown Cluster Elementary Parents & Guardians,

APS and the Midtown Cluster remains committed to promoting student focus and well-being, as well as academic success by minimizing distractions and fostering meaningful classroom engagement. Together, we can ensure our schools remain safe, respectful, and conducive to learning.

As we prepare for the 2025-2026 school year, we want to take a moment to remind all parents/guardians of the importance of consistently enforcing the district’s Personal Electronic Device (PED) policy, beginning Monday, Aug. 4. The use of cell phones and other PEDs is a privilege that may be granted to students before and after the official school day, only with parent consent. However, during the school day (including lunch breaks), all devices must be turned off and kept out of sight unless approved by school administration. Students will be granted access to their phones by school administrators for personal emergencies and other special circumstances. More information about the PED policy may be found here (Board Policy) and here (Regulation).

The Midtown Cluster elementary schools will implement “Away for the Day”. PEDs will be put away for the day. We understand that many parents and guardians provide their elementary school child with a smartwatch or other wireless device. If the device is used as a phone, for example to communicate via text or call, it will be treated within the policy the same as a phone. If you need to communicate with your child during the school day, please contact our front offices. If students need to communicate with you during the school day, we ask that they do so through their teacher, school nurse or front office staff. We ask for families to support our schools in this initiative.

We would like to sincerely thank all parents and guardians for your understanding. Your partnership and involvement play a vital role in the success of our students and school community. Together, we can continue to help every child grow, learn, and thrive!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Keisha Knight - Hope Hill Elementary
Mrs. Denise Bringslid - Mary Lin Elementary
Mr. Brian Baron - Morningside Elementary
Dr. Jennifer Toney - Springdale Park Elementary
Mr. Terry Harness - Virginia-Highland Elementary