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Electronic Device Policy


TUHSD Electronic Device Policy Overview (2026–2027)

All schools in the Tam District will be “phone-free” beginning on day one, August 19.  All students are expected to check out a NuKase lockable phone case prior to the first day of school. Please see your schools website for details about when your student can pick up their NuKase.  

 

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Why the District Changed the Electronic Device Policy

The scientific research is clear:  smartphones and social media are detrimental to academic development and harm mental well-being.  The district updated its electronic device policy to foster an optimal learning environment, reduce digital distractions during the instructional day, and support students' overall mental health and interpersonal engagement on campus. By eliminating access to personal electronic devices throughout the school day, students can remain fully focused on academic growth, classroom participation, and building face-to-face connections with peers and educators.

What Is the Policy?

Upon arriving on campus, all personal electronic devices—specifically including smartwatches and cell phones—must be:

  • Turned Off: Powered down completely before entering campus grounds.
  • Stored Securely: Locked inside the NuKase cell phone case for the entire duration of the school day.  The NuKase should remain in the student’s backpack or locker for the eternity of the school day.
  • Unlocked at the End of the School Day: Students will unlock their phone case at the end of the school day.

What about Off Campus Lunch? 

Students who leave campus for lunch, will not have access to their smart phones and parents expressly understand that neither the school district nor any officer or any employee thereof shall be liable for the conduct or safety of any pupil during such time as the pupil left campus without their smart phone. (BP 5131.8 Mobile Communication Devices)

How to Communicate with Your Child During the School Day

Emergency / Urgent Communication

If you need to reach your child urgently during the school day, please contact the school’s main office. Staff will ensure your message is delivered promptly or connect you directly with your student if needed. Examples of emergencies / urgent situations include:

  • A sudden illness or injury in the family or other family emergencies that require immediate attention
  • Time-sensitive concerns like a change in a medical appointment time or a need to unexpectedly pick your student up early

In the event of an emergency or urgent situation, you can call the main office at:

Archie Williams: (415) 458-3400

Redwood: (415) 945-3600

San Andreas/Tamiscal: (415) 945-3770

Tamalpais: (415) 380-3500

Medical Exemptions for Phone Case Usage 

TUHSD is committed to providing a safe, focused learning environment while fully supporting the health and medical needs of our students. Students with documented medical conditions that require the use of a smartphone or connected medical device (such as a Continuous Glucose Monitor, heart monitor, or assistive communication app) will be issued a modified medical-access case. These exceptions are not for convenience or preference, but for clearly documented needs. 

To obtain a medical exemption case, guardians must complete the medical exemption form. This form can be located in the main office of your school site. 

TUHSD Electronic No-Device Policy Waiver

This waiver is provided for parents/guardians who affirm and confirm that their child does NOT bring a cell phone or personal electronic device to school and therefore does not require, accept, or assume responsibility for a school-issued phone NuKase (NuKase). This form can be located in the main office of your school site.