Spokane district officials say stricter phone policy improved attendance, behavior and academics

Superintendent Adam Swinyard told attendees that Spokane's approach to limiting phone use in schools centers on community learning and a district initiative called "Engage Real Life," which aims to get students involved in after‑school activities. "We've seen incredible impacts in attendance and behavior and academics," Swinyard said.

Principal Ivan Corley described a multi‑year rollout at Lewis and Clark High School, saying the school is in its third year of implementation and uses systems to keep phones out of instructional time. "Students are more present. They're more focused and ready to learn," Corley said, adding that the policy has improved on‑time arrival between classes and classroom discourse.

Both administrators acknowledged challenges during transition and emphasized the need for consistency, partnership and resources. They framed their experience as evidence the state policy proponents point to when arguing a statewide standard could help other districts achieve similar outcomes.