El Monte Union High School district is now enforcing the new California cellphone policy that started in January, 2026. This protocol will be in every class with all students putting their phones away in a storage compartment. This rule will have to do with all devices such as headphones, smart watches, and more. This policy is to help strengthen student focus and engagement.

According to an email sent by Dr Edward Zuniga, district superintendent, “ While the District recognizes that mobile communication devices can be beneficial for learning and student well-being, they can also disrupt instruction and impact social interactions. The new policy limits student cell phone use during the school day to promote face-to-face connection, attentiveness, and academic engagement.”

“The policy, developed in collaboration with District leaders, school administrators, and staff, establishes clear expectations for student mobile device use on campus to support safe, focused, and engaging learning environments,”  said Dr Zuniga in his email.

This has seemed to have taken a toll on students in their classes since they were used to the comfortably of going on their devices. 

As for many of the students disliking the new ban, they seem to be working well to the adjustment. Mr. Dara Sem, special education teacher, was asked how he felt about this new phone policy. Mr Sem said he “loves it “. He feels that it is “absolutely” working well.

Most of the classes contain phone lockers that stay shut till the end of the class period when teachers unlock it. Student  Melanie Borgen explained (12) “ I believe the phone ban is convenient with getting schoolwork done and no distractions in the way of that. I would also say it is making my schoolwork easier and also group projects by having more communication skills.”

Overall this has been a huge shift, but it is seeming to be helping students focus and socialize more in their classes.