Lake County Gazette

Dr. Jeni Gotto, Superintendent of Westminster Public Schools, has informed the school community about a new Colorado state law that will require all public school districts to develop and implement their own student cell phone policies by July 1, 2026.

The legislation, House Bill 25-1135, directs each district to set clear rules regarding student cell phone use during the school day and to identify any exceptions. Dr. Gotto noted that while the law now requires formal policies, Westminster Public Schools (WPS) had already been considering how best to address this issue due to concerns from parents and educators nationwide about excessive student cell phone use.

“There is increasing evidence that excessive cell phone use can negatively impact children’s mental health, attention, and social development,” Dr. Gotto stated in her message. She also referenced studies indicating improved academic achievement in schools where such policies are enforced.

Dr. Gotto explained that WPS is approaching policy development collaboratively, having begun discussions with the Board of Education, teacher and support staff representatives, principals, district leadership team members, and soon with the student cabinet as well. She invited feedback from parents, guardians, staff members—and students—via email.

She outlined key guidelines from the state for consideration:

- All public schools must adopt and publicly post a cell phone policy.

- Districts have full control over specific rules suited to local needs.

- Policies must include both restrictions and exceptions for instructional or emergency use.

- Accommodations are required for students with disabilities or medical needs.

- The deadline for implementation is July 1, 2026.

Dr. Gotto added that if additional legislative action occurs on this topic in the next session, WPS will review new requirements and adjust its policy as needed.

“Together, we can create a policy that supports both learning and student well-being—helping our children stay focused, connected, and healthy,” she wrote.

Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 represents several schools in Lake County including Andrew Cooke Magnet Elementary School and Waukegan High School among others (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). The district's demographic breakdown includes approximately 79.5 percent Hispanic students; it employs over one thousand teachers who earn an average salary of $63,524 before pension contributions (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). In 2020, spending per student was $23,429 (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).