As students return to school for the 2026-27 school year, Brea Olinda Unified School District is reinforcing expectations for mobile device use on campus through updated Board Policy 5131.8, Mobile Communication Devices and California Assembly Bill 3216, Phone-Free Schools Act.
The policy is designed to help minimize distractions, protect instructional time, and promote safe, respectful learning environments while recognizing that mobile devices can serve important purposes for students and families.
Understanding the Mobile Device Policy
Mobile device expectations differ by grade level.
Grades TK-6: Elementary School
Personal mobile devices are prohibited from being used during the school day on elementary school campuses.
Grades 7–8: Junior High School
At the junior high level, students may possess a smartphone or other mobile communication device, but devices may not be used while students are at school, except in specific circumstances permitted by law.
Exceptions include:
An emergency or perceived threat of danger
Permission from a teacher or administrator
A medical need determined by a licensed physician or surgeon
Use required by a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan
Grades 9-12: High School
At the high school level, students may use smartphones and other mobile communication devices during non-instructional time, provided that their use complies with applicable laws and school rules.
Mobile devices must be turned off and put away during instructional time OR must be used in accordance with the school’s alternative CLocked Program. There are approved exceptions for students who have a medical necessity for the use of their device.
Students should also remember that mobile devices may not be used in a manner that infringes on another person's privacy or in a manner that is perceived as bullying or harassment. For complete information, families are encouraged to review Board Policy 5131.8, Mobile Communication Devices.
New CLocked Pilot Program at Brea Olinda High School
To help students successfully follow the high school mobile device policy, BOUSD is partnering with CLocked, a school-focused mobile app designed to reduce phone distractions during instructional time.
As part of a pilot program at Brea Olinda High School, students will be able to have the option to keep their phones with them while using CLocked to limit access to distracting applications during class.
CLocked works by placing designated applications into a temporary lockdown during instructional periods. These may include social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, as well as other distracting applications such as YouTube and games.
At the same time, students will continue to have access to school-related applications and essential phone functions, including platforms such as Aeries, Google Classroom, and 5-Star Students. Calling functionality will remain available at all times.
How CLocked Works
During a student's first class of the day, students will be encouraged to scan a QR code to activate the CLocked program on their device.
The app's lockdown schedule is connected to the Brea Olinda High School bell schedule. This means students' designated apps will be restricted during instructional periods and will automatically become available during breaks and passing periods, snack time, and lunch. It is important to note that CLocked does not monitor students' personal content, messages, or photos. It simply manages access to designated apps during the school day in accordance with district policy.
In the event of an emergency on campus, an administrator can unlock participating devices with the click of a button.
Alternative Option to CLocked
Students and families will have options for how students manage their devices during the school day. Students who choose not to participate in the CLocked program will still be expected to follow the District’s mobile device policy and all school expectations. For students who prefer not to use CLocked, cell phones need to be turned off and stored in their backpack.
Privacy Is a Priority
CLocked does not monitor students' personal content, messages, or photos. The program simply manages access to designated applications during the school day in accordance with District policy.
The goal is to provide students with a practical tool that allows them to keep their phones while reducing the temptation and distractions associated with social media, games, and other non-school applications during class.
Supporting Students Through a Progressive Approach
BOUSD and Brea Olinda High School recognize that changing habits around mobile device use can be challenging for some students. The goal is not simply to take phones away, but to provide clear expectations, consistent support, and opportunities for students to develop responsible technology habits.
For students who repeatedly use their phones in violation of the policy, Brea Olinda High School has established a progressive response:
Step 1 – Warning and Confiscation
A teacher or staff member confiscates the device. The student may pick it up from the Main Office at the end of the school day and will receive a referral and warning regarding future consequences.
Step 2 – Parent/Guardian Pick-Up and Detention
The device is confiscated until the end of the school day. A parent or guardian must pick up the device, and the student is assigned detention.
Step 3 – Saturday School
The device is confiscated and must be picked up by a parent or guardian. The student is assigned Saturday School.
Step 4 – Administrative Meeting and Saturday School
The device is confiscated, and a parent or guardian must meet with an administrator. The student is also assigned Saturday School.
Step 5 – Daily Check-In and Yondr Pouch
The student and device will participate in a daily check-in process. During instructional time, the device will be secured in a Yondr Pouch.
Working Together to Protect Instructional Time
Mobile devices are an important part of modern life, but they can also create significant distractions during the school day. BOUSD's updated policy, along with the option of using the CLocked program or keeping their device in their backpacks, is intended to help students find the right balance.
By establishing clear expectations and providing students with tools to manage distractions, the District hopes to preserve valuable instructional time while helping students develop responsible and appropriate technology habits.
To learn more about the District's Mobile Communication Device Policy and CLocked Program, read the District’s Frequently Asked Questions.
