Prior Lake High School Cell Phone Policy

For the student body, cell phones are a daily fixture, used for everything from checking schedules to staying in touch with family and friends.

Because these devices are so deeply integrated into our routines, the rules dictating their use on our school campus impact everyone. A closer look at our school’s official policy shows what students are expected to do when the morning bell rings.

The PLHS cell phone policy is simple: students may use their devices during passing periods, as well as before and after school hours. However, phones are prohibited during class time. During instructional periods, cell phones must be stored away out of sight, either in a backpack or a designated phone pocket holder, unless an emergency arises.

According to Principal Dr. John Bezek, the goal is not a total ban on mobile devices. Instead, the policy aligns with a broader state-level push to minimize classroom distractions. Because the policy was implemented in response to this statewide initiative, the school administration did not review localized data before putting the rules into effect.

Since its introduction, the cell phone policy has been met with very little pushback from students or parents. While national organizations like the National Parents Union (NPU) and research groups like the RAND Corporation have raised concerns that restricting phone access cuts off direct contact between parents and children, Dr. Bezek noted that he is not concerned about these criticisms.

He pointed out that schools successfully operated before cell phones existed and noted that every classroom is equipped with a teacher’s phone, allowing parents to easily reach their children through the main office if necessary.

Ultimately, the policy strikes a balance that keeps the focus on learning without completely cutting students off from the digital world. While debates over phone access continue on a national level, our school campus has adapted to the new routine with minimal argument.

For now, students seem content to keep their screens tucked away during class, saving the texting and scrolling for the passing bell.

Prior Lake High School Cell Phone Policy

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