Carmel Unified adopts smartphone policy under AB 3216; high school retains limited use system

Carmel Unified trustees voted to adopt Board Policy 5131.8 to comply with Assembly Bill 3216 (the Phone‑free School Act) and Education Code section 48901.7, which requires districts to adopt smartphone policies by July 1, 2026.

Andrew Rodriguez and Manuel Kera described the committee’s process, which included more than 1,000 survey responses from students, parents and staff. The committee recommended a two‑path approach that aligns with the legislation: limited use (phones off and away during instructional time but available during non‑instructional time) and prohibited use (phones stored and out of sight for the school day). The district recommended option one (limited use) for Carmel High School, where the pocket‑chart system is widely used, and option two (prohibited use) for other sites.

Rodriguez said the policy is designed around developmental needs and stakeholder feedback and includes exceptions for emergencies, health needs, authorized staff use and IEP accommodations. Board members praised the data collection and recommended communication plans; the policy was brought to the table and adopted by roll‑call vote.

Staff said the policy formalizes practices already in place and that the adoption is intended principally to ensure district compliance with AB 3216 by the July 1, 2026 deadline.