District-Wide Cell Phone Policy: DMPS Announces Changes For The Upcoming School Year

Henrik Larsen

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Post on May 30, 2025

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Keywords: DMPS cell phone policy, Des Moines Public Schools cell phones, school cell phone policy, student cell phone rules, DMPS technology policy, cell phone use in school, Iowa school cell phone policy, DMPS student handbook, cell phone policy for students.

The Des Moines Public School district (DMPS) has announced significant changes to its district-wide cell phone policy, effective August 21, 2024. These updates aim to create a more focused learning environment while acknowledging the important role technology plays in students' lives. This article details the key changes parents and students need to know to ensure a smooth transition and understanding of the new DMPS cell phone policy.

Key Changes to the DMPS Cell Phone Policy

The revised DMPS cell phone policy introduces stricter guidelines compared to previous years. The primary focus is on minimizing classroom distractions and promoting more focused learning during instructional time. Key changes include designated cell phone storage areas, updated consequences for violations, and clearer guidelines for permitted cell phone use outside of instructional hours.

• Classroom Cell Phone Use: Cell phones must be stored in designated areas during all instructional periods. This means no cell phones are permitted on desks, in pockets, or visible during class time. This is a significant change from the previous policy, which allowed for limited cell phone use under teacher supervision.
• School Events: Cell phone use during school events, including sporting events, assemblies, and performances, will be subject to specific guidelines set by event organizers. Generally, cell phone use will be restricted during the main event to avoid distractions and ensure the focus remains on the performance or activity.
• Non-Instructional Periods: While cell phone use is restricted during instructional time, students may typically use their phones during designated lunch breaks and non-instructional periods, provided they do so respectfully and do not disrupt others.
• Disciplinary Actions: Violations of the DMPS cell phone policy will result in consequences, ranging from verbal warnings to phone confiscation and parent contact. Repeated offenses may lead to more serious disciplinary actions as outlined in the complete DMPS student handbook.
• IEP/504 Plan Accommodations: Students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans may have exceptions to the cell phone policy. Parents should work with their child's school administration to determine appropriate accommodations. Documentation outlining these accommodations will need to be provided to the school.

Designated Cell Phone Storage Areas and Procedures

To facilitate compliance with the new policy, DMPS schools will implement designated cell phone storage areas. These secure locations provide a place for students to store their devices during instructional periods.

• Storage Locations: Each school will designate specific locations for cell phone storage, such as designated lockers, cubbies, or designated areas within classrooms. The specific location will be communicated to students and parents by school administration.
• Storage and Retrieval: A clear procedure for storing and retrieving phones will be established by each school. Students will be assigned a designated storage space and will be expected to follow established procedures to ensure efficient and orderly storage and retrieval of their phones.
• Lost or Damaged Phones: The DMPS is not responsible for lost or damaged phones stored in designated areas. Students should ensure their phones are securely stored and are encouraged to purchase a protective case.
• Security Measures: Schools will implement appropriate security measures to protect stored cell phones. This may include supervised storage areas or other security protocols as determined by individual schools and the overall DMPS security plan.

Addressing Concerns About Emergency Communication

The new DMPS cell phone policy acknowledges the need for emergency communication. While cell phones are generally restricted during instructional time, procedures are in place to handle emergencies.

• Emergency Communication Procedures: In case of an emergency, students can use designated school phones to contact parents/guardians. Students should familiarize themselves with the location of these phones and the emergency communication protocol within their school.
• Parental Contact in Emergencies: Parents can contact their children in emergencies through the school office. The school office will have protocols in place to ensure timely communication and will be able to contact students as needed.
• Emergency Exceptions: There may be exceptions to the cell phone policy in case of emergencies, at the discretion of school administration. This is handled on a case-by-case basis.

Parental Involvement and Communication

DMPS is committed to keeping parents informed about the updated cell phone policy and encourages parent involvement.

• Official Policy Document: The complete DMPS cell phone policy document is available on the official DMPS website [Insert Link Here].
• Parent Information Sessions: DMPS will be holding informational sessions and webinars for parents to address any questions or concerns regarding the new policy. Dates and times for these sessions will be announced on the DMPS website and through school newsletters.
• Contact Information: Parents can contact DMPS administration with questions about the new policy by calling [Insert Phone Number Here] or emailing [Insert Email Address Here].
• Parent-Student Discussion: Parents are encouraged to discuss the updated DMPS cell phone policy with their children to ensure a clear understanding of the expectations and consequences.

Conclusion

The updated DMPS cell phone policy aims to strike a balance between fostering a focused learning environment and acknowledging the role of technology in students' lives. The changes outlined above clarify expectations for students and provide procedures for responsible cell phone use in Des Moines Public Schools. The district emphasizes open communication and encourages parents and students to review the complete policy document for a thorough understanding. Understand the new DMPS cell phone policy and its implications for your student. Visit the official DMPS website for the complete policy details and frequently asked questions. Familiarize yourself with the new district-wide cell phone rules to ensure a successful school year for your child.