Lightning Families --                                                                     

As we prepare for a productive and engaging school year, we want to share an important update regarding the use of wireless communication devices, such as cell phones, on school grounds during instructional time.

Our district is fully aware of and aligned with the current state legislation regarding wireless communication devices in schools. Our primary goal is to foster learning environments where students are deeply engaged, connected with their peers and teachers, and free from unnecessary digital distractions.

To achieve this, our district uses a progressive, developmentally appropriate approach tailored to students' unique social and cognitive needs as they grow. Below is an overview of how these guidelines will be implemented across our schools:

Elementary Level (Grades K–6)

At the elementary level, building strong foundational learning habits and encouraging face-to-face social play are top priorities.

• If a student brings a cell phone or smartwatch to school, it must remain turned off or in airplane mode and stored in their locker for the entire school day.

• Keeping devices out of sight and out of reach allows our younger learners to stay focused on discovery, foundational skills, and positive playground interactions.

• At RW Campus, students will be allowed to check for parent messages before lunch and before leaving for home.

Middle Level (Grades 7 & 8)

At the middle level, students will begin learning digital literacy while maintaining face-to-face social interactions in the classroom.  

• If a student brings a cell phone or smartwatch to school, it must remain turned off or in airplane mode and be stored in their locker, except to check messages between classes and/or use during lunch.

• Keeping devices out of sight and out of reach allows our middle level learners to stay focused on learning and foundational skills.

High School Level (Grades 9–12)

As students mature, we recognize the importance of teaching digital responsibility while protecting valuable classroom instructional time.

To limit distractions during class, teachers will utilize classroom phone caddies. Students will place their devices into the designated caddy at the start of each class period and retrieve them at the end of the period.  

• Lesson-specific academic assignments, at the limited and direct discretion of the classroom teacher, are allowed. 

• This approach ensures that instructional time remains entirely dedicated to learning, while giving older students a structured routine to practice setting personal devices aside.

We understand that parents may occasionally need to reach their child during the school day. Rest assured, our main office staff is always available to relay urgent messages.

We deeply appreciate your partnership in supporting these practices. By working together, we can ensure our classrooms remain safe and focused places for all students to learn.

Thank you!
Matt Wandrie
LCS Superintendent