Nooksack Valley Schools now has a uniform rule governing the use of cell phones across all schools. The new policy, adopted in July, takes immediate effect and was created after extensive engagement with staff, students and families over the past year.  

For students up to eighth grade, there is no change to current procedures that require cell phones and similar devices be turned off and stored in backpacks or bags from the first bell to the end of the school day, including lunch. The policy for those in high school follows the same guidelines but does allow for the use of phones during passing periods (but not lunch, in keeping with the uniform policy).
 
The board says that the cooperation with staff, students and families showed the shared value everyone had in reduced cell phone use in school, turning everyone’s attention to a more focused learning environment that also develops strong in-person relationships with social interactions. 
 
See below for a letter from your board of directors: 
 
Subject: New District-Wide Cell Phone Policy – Effective 2025–26 School Year
 
Dear Parents and Families,
 
At its July 17, 2025 meeting, the Nooksack Valley School District Board of Directors formally adopted Policy 3245 – Students and Telecommunication Devices, establishing consistent rules for student use of cell phones and other telecommunication devices across all district schools. This policy is in effect now and for the upcoming start of the 2025–26 school year.
 
For students Grades PreK–8, there is no change to the current procedures that requires cell phones and similar devices to be turned off and stored in backpacks or bags from the first bell to the end of the school day.
 
For high school students, the policy reflects extensive engagement with staff, students, families, and the Board over the past year. Together, we clearly value the benefits of reduced cell phone use in school—a more focused learning environment, stronger in-person relationships and social interactions, and healthier emotional balance—while still allowing access when it is truly needed through limited, purposeful use. As students return to school they can expect the following:
 

• Cell phones and similar devices must be turned off and stored in backpacks or bags during class time and lunch.
• Students may use devices only before and after school and during passing periods between classes.
• Teachers may collect phones as part of their classroom procedures.

The full policy is available on the district website for your review. In the coming weeks, Matt Galley (our Superintendent) and Collin Buckley (our high school principal) will share additional details about daily procedures and accountability measures to ensure a smooth implementation and start to our school year.
 
We appreciate your cooperation as we work to create school environments that are engaged, respectful, focused, and safe for all students.
 
Sincerely,
Nooksack Valley School District Board of Directors