Dear PSHS Parents and Families,

As we continue our commitment to creating the best possible learning environment for your children, we're excited to share an important initiative that will transform the culture of our school and significantly boost student engagement. Beginning this year, we are implementing a comprehensive personal device policy that prioritizes face-to-face connections, deeper learning, and meaningful student interactions.

Our New Personal Device Policy

Effective immediately, the use of personal cellular devices—including cell phones, smartwatches, headphones/earbuds, iPads, and tablets—is prohibited at PSHS during school hours. All devices must be turned off and stored in backpacks from 8:10 am to 3:45 pm (8:10 am to 1:45 pm on Fridays), including during passing periods and lunch.

Any device that is visible, heard, or powered on will be confiscated and held in the main office until a parent or guardian can pick it up. We believe this clear, consistent approach will help everyone adjust to the new expectations quickly and successfully.

Why This Change Matters

Research consistently shows that the mere presence of smartphones—even when turned off—can significantly impact learning, attention, and social development. We've observed how devices can create barriers to the rich discussions, collaborative projects, and spontaneous interactions that make high school such a formative experience.

By removing these distractions, we're creating space for students to:

Engage More Deeply in Learning: Without the constant pull of notifications and social media, students can focus more fully on classroom discussions, complex problem-solving, and creative projects that require sustained attention.

Build Stronger Relationships: Lunch periods and passing time will become opportunities for genuine conversations, new friendships, and the kind of social skills that serve students throughout their lives.

Develop Self-Regulation: Learning to be fully present without digital distractions is a valuable life skill that will benefit students in college, careers, and personal relationships.

Participate More Actively: Students who might typically retreat into their devices during group work or discussions will have new opportunities to share their voices and ideas.

Supporting the Transition at Home

We know this represents a significant shift, and we're asking for your partnership in making it successful. Here are some ways you can support your student:

Discuss the "Why": Help your child understand that this policy isn't punitive—it's designed to enhance their high school experience and prepare them for success in environments that require sustained focus and interpersonal skills.

Establish Communication Plans: If you need to reach your student during school hours for emergencies, please contact the main office. If office staff are unable to answer the phone, please leave a message as messages are checked regularly.  We will ensure urgent messages are delivered promptly.

Model Digital Balance: Consider having conversations at home about healthy technology use and the value of device-free time for family meals, homework, and other activities.

Trust the Process: Some students may initially feel anxious about being separated from their devices. This is normal and typically resolves quickly as students rediscover the benefits of uninterrupted learning and social interaction.

What You Can Expect to See

In schools that have implemented similar policies, educators and families report remarkable positive changes within just a few weeks. Students become more engaged in class discussions, form new friendships during lunch, and show improved academic performance. Teachers can focus on instruction rather than device management, creating more dynamic and interactive learning experiences.

We're particularly excited about the potential for increased participation in our clubs, sports teams, and other extracurricular activities as students have more opportunities to connect with peers who share their interests.

Emergency Communications

We understand that family communication is important. In case of emergencies, please contact the main office at 970-264-2231, and we will immediately connect you with your student. For routine matters, we encourage families to communicate with students before and after school hours.

Moving Forward Together

This policy represents our shared commitment to helping every PSHS student thrive academically and socially. We believe that by reducing digital distractions, we're giving our students the gift of deeper learning, stronger relationships, and the confidence that comes from being fully present in their own lives.

We appreciate your support as we implement this important change. If you have questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to your child's counselor or the main office. Together, we can ensure that this policy enhances your student's high school experience and prepares them for success beyond our walls.

Thank you for your partnership in your child's education.