Santa Maria Joint Union High Schools start new cell phone ban

SANTA MARIA, Calif. (KEYT) - The first day of class began in the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) Thursday morning with a brand new personal device policy in effect.

Known as ""Off and Away except Lunch," the new rule will require students at Santa Maria, Righetti, Pioneer Valley and Delta high schools to power down and store away all electronic devices for most of the school day.

Once on campus, students will no longer be allowed to use cell phones, smartwatches, and other personal electronic devices, including AI-enabled personal devices.

The revised policy restricts any usage of devices during class time and passing periods.

The only exception will be during lunch break, which will provide students time to access and use their devices.

The District adopted the new policy in June and said purpose is to minimize distractions and maximize student engagement, academic growth, and meaningful social interaction during the school day.

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