Albany students can use their phones. Just not in class.
"Our approach is rooted in balance," Superintendent Sara Stone told Albany Scanner.
While neighboring school districts opt for campuswide cellphone bans, Albany still lets students use their phones during lunch and passing periods.
Albany Unified School District's more flexible approach is in line with a new state law requiring public schools to limit student smartphone use during the school day.
In 2024, Gov. Gavin Newsom called on school districts to restrict smartphone use in classrooms, citing the negative effects of social media on children’s mental health.
Starting this fall, every California school district must have a policy limiting device use during the school day and many students begin classes this week under new guidelines.
Albany was ahead of the curve.
AUSD implemented a cellphone policy for the middle and high schools in 2023, before Newsom signed the Phone-Free School Act (AB 3216) into law. The Albany Board of Education adopted a districtwide policy in May 2025.
Under the current policy, students may use mobile devices during non-instructional times, including passing periods and lunch, but devices must be off during class.
"Our approach is rooted in balance," Superintendent Sara Stone told Albany Scanner. "We recognize that mobile devices have a place in students' lives, but we also know that limiting distractions during instructional time improves engagement, learning and student wellbeing."
Albany Unified's policy is less restrictive than those in some neighboring districts.
Oakland and Piedmont Unified ban student phone use completely, and San Francisco requires devices to be off and put away during instructional hours and passing periods.
Alameda Unified, like Albany, allows students to use cellphones during non-instructional time and lunch periods.
Stone said the district's policy has been effective since it was introduced.
"We … have not seen cellphones as a distraction for students," she said. “We have found that clear expectations, consistent implementation and strong communication with students and families are more effective than simply banning devices."
"Our goal is to help students develop healthy technology habits while creating classrooms where they can fully engage with their teachers and peers," she added.
State law includes exceptions allowing students to use smartphones when required by an individualized education program or other documented accommodation.
Students may also use their phones during emergencies or when they perceive an immediate threat to their safety, according to state Education Code.
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