Beginning this school year, the Gorham Schools will implement a new Cell Phone and Other Personal Electronic Devices policy, as required of all school districts, by Maine state law.

The complete policy is available on the district website and will be clearly outlined in each school’s Student/Family Handbook. The basic expectation is that student cell phones should not be visible or used from the opening bell to the closing bell.

In the elementary schools, students are encouraged to leave cell phones at home, as in past years. At GMS and GHS, students may bring phones to school and use them on the bus, before the opening bell, and after the closing bell. During the school day, however, phones must remain off and away, not visible, and not distracting to the learning environment.

GMS and GHS administration will provide students and families with specific procedures for implementing and enforcing these expectations as the school year begins.

Families are encouraged to talk with their children, especially middle and high school students, about this new expectation regarding cell phones and personal electronic devices. It is important to help them understand the “why” behind the policy. The schools want students focused on learning, engaged with their teachers, and building face-to-face relationships with peers that are such an important part of the school experience and future success.