Description:
The study examined the implementation of Regulation COG-RA and local school personal mobile device (PMD) guidelines, focusing on awareness, supportive practices, and changes in the school community. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were gathered from staff, student, and family surveys, as well as document reviews, with special attention to ten “Away All Day” pilot schools. Common promising practices in the pilot schools included clear restrictions, graduated consequences, logistical planning, staff training, and multi-channel communication. Findings showed high levels of familiarity with school-level PMD guidelines among staff, families, and students, alignment with COG-RA expectations, and benefits such as increased student engagement, reduced distractions, and improved in-person interactions. Challenges included inconsistent enforcement, unclear rules for non-phone devices, uncertainty about consequences—especially among elementary staff and families—and student reliance on PMDs due to limitations of school-issued devices.
Recommendations:
- Verify the alignment of local school PMD guidelines with Regulation COG-RA to ensure consistency and compliance across all schools (district-level).
- Strengthen PMD guidelines through targeted communication and consistent enforcement to ensure all students and staff understand expectations and consequences (school-level).
A response to the recommendations in this report, prepared by the Office of Strategic Initiatives, can be found here.
File Name:
FY 25 PMD COG RA Report.pdf (4.9MB PDF)
