If you are a Denver Public Schools (DPS) parent, educator or community member, you have probably heard the conversations already—at school pickup, in group chats or maybe around your kitchen table. What should schools do about cell phones? And who gets to decide?
By July 1, 2026, House Bill 25-1135 requires every Colorado school district to adopt a formal policy that limits the use of smartphones and smartwatches by students during the school day. The goal of the legislation is to reduce distractions, support student mental health and increase classroom engagement, while continuing to give districts flexibility to decide what those limits look like and how devices can, or can’t, be used.
This conversation isn’t unique to Colorado. Across the country, school districts are grappling with how to manage cell phone use during the school day in a way that supports student learning while also respecting families’ real concerns.
Now, it’s officially on DPS’ to-do list.
Why Is This Coming Up Now?
DPS must land on a district-wide approach before the upcoming school year. While that deadline may seem far off, the groundwork is happening now. District leaders are beginning to gather information, review research and think through what a policy could look like. That’s where community voice matters most.
To help shape this work, DPS has formed a Communication Devices Advisory Committee (CDAC), bringing together diverse voices from across the community to inform what a fair and thoughtful cell phone policy should look like. Community members are invited to participate by sharing their perspectives during public comment at upcoming committee meetings.
What the Research Is Saying
Much of the current research being shared nationally points toward what’s often called a bell-to-bell phone-free policy, meaning students do not have access to their phones for the entire school day, from the first bell to the last.
Studies from districts that have adopted these policies show some consistent trends:
- More time spent learning
- Fewer classroom disruptions
- Reduced bullying and social media conflict during school hours
- Stronger peer-to-peer relationships
Supporters argue that phones are designed to capture attention, and classrooms should be designed for learning. Colorado Children’s Hospital has contributed expertise to the conversation, based on observed trends in youth mental health and cell phone use. Pew Research reports that about 72% of U.S. high school teachers surveyed say that cell phones are a major distraction in the classroom.
At the same time, many families raise real concerns: staying connected with their children, ensuring safety, coordinating after-school plans and recognizing that students’ needs can vary by grade level.
Centering Community Voices
Community organizations across Denver are already doing listening work around cell phone policies. One of them, Stand for Children, has been sharing research and pushing for a district-wide policy, while also engaging families across the state.
They argue that research shows that phone-free schools allow students an extra hour of learning daily, reduce bullying and facilitate meaningful peer connections.
Other community groups are focused on making sure families understand what’s happening and how they can participate in shaping the decision.
At this stage, Denver Families’ goal is not to promote a specific policy. It’s to:
- Share clear, accessible information
- Surface community questions and concerns
- Create space for dialogue across different school communities
If DPS adopts a district-wide policy, schools will need resources, guidance and district-level support to implement it well and equitably.
One DPS Policy, or Many?
Another open question is whether DPS will pursue:
- A single, consistent district-wide policy, or
- A framework that allows for differences by school
DPS leaders, including Superintendent Alex Marrero, have not yet decided whether to keep allowing school administrators to set their own cell phone rules or to implement a single districtwide policy. The DPS Board of Education will ultimately play a key role in the decision. No matter the structure, the state law makes one thing clear: a policy must be decided, and community input is part of that process.
What We’re Doing Next
Over the coming months, you’ll see more opportunities to engage, including community surveys, listening sessions and sharing of resources.
Before any policy is written, we want to make sure families understand:
- Where the district is in the process
- How research is being used
- How to make your voice heard
Why Your Voice Matters
Cell phone policies impact students’ daily lives. They affect how teachers manage classrooms and how families stay connected. Once a district-wide decision is made, it will likely influence DPS schools for years to come.
We’ll continue to share updates, resources and opportunities to engage as this work moves forward.
In the meantime, what questions do you have about cell phone policies in DPS? What concerns or hopes do you want district leaders to understand? Reach out to us through our contact form, or email us at jessica@denverfamilies.org.
With a decision on the horizon, now is the moment for DPS families and communities to help shape what’s best for DPS students.