TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Tanque Verde Unified School District leaders are weighing stricter limits on cell phone use for middle and high school students. The issue is on the agenda for the school board’s meeting Wednesday night.
The governing board unanimously voted to adopt the state law into their "Student Code of Conduct" writing "a student shall not use a cellular telephone or other electronic wireless communication device during school day (including meals, passing periods and recess) except as expressly permitted by the District."
Now it's up to those district leaders to decide what they will permit in their schools.
Under one proposal, all students in grades 7 through 12 would be required to place their phones in Yondr pouches—a type of locking sleeve—at the start of each day. The pouches remain sealed until the final bell rings, preventing any use during class hours.
However, board members said that option would cost the district over $40,000 to purchase the pouches, causing several on the board to suggest looking for a cheaper option.
Another option would ban phones and smart devices during the school day, with an exception allowing students to use them during their designated lunch period. In that scenario, devices would have to stay powered off and packed away during class time and passing periods.
The discussion comes on the heels of Arizona House Bill 2484, a new state law that sets guidelines for how schools handle student cell phone use. Under both stricter proposals, district leaders would also define clear standards for how and when students can communicate with parents during the day.
Tanque Verde District's governing board said they'll revisit the issue— and discuss procedures and consequences— in their second meeting in August.
TVUSD schools start the 2025-26 school year on July 31.
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Kenny Darr is a reporter for KGUN 9. He joined the team in January 2023. Before arriving in Arizona he was an Anchor and Reporter at KADN in Lafayette, LA. Share your story ideas with Kenny by emailing kenny.darr@kgun9.com or by connecting on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
