Gale Ranch Middle School

AB 3216, also known as the Phone-Free Schools Act, is a California state law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on September 23, 2024. The law mandates that all school districts, charter schools, and county offices of education in California develop and implement policies that limit the use of smartphones by students during the school day.

Mobile Communication Devices  include, but are not limited to, smartphones, smart watches, and wearable communication devices. 

School Day means the period from the time a student arrives on campus until the time of their dismissal, including class time, passing periods, breaks, and lunch periods, as well as during school-sponsored activities (SRVUSD 5131.8 AR).

Instructional Time means the time specifically designated for classroom instruction and academic activities as determined by school schedules.

 

Effective August 2025, the SRVUSD Mobile Communication Devices policy will be implemented for all students. For grades 6-8, all mobile communication devices must be turned off or silenced, AND stored in backpacks or other designated storage during the school day which includes the following:

SRVUSD 5131.8 BP permits exceptions for emergencies, health-related needs as determined by a licensed physician, or as required in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan.

 

The first time a student violates the policy their mobile communication device will be confiscated by a staff member and held in the front office. It may be picked up by the student after school. Beginning with the second confiscation a parent or guardian must pick up the mobile communication device between the hours of 8:00am and 4:00pm. Students who refuse to comply with a device confiscation may be subject to an additional disciplinary consequence. The school is not responsible for lost, damaged  or stolen property.

Rev. 8.11.25