Recently, Wisconsin passed Act 42, which requires school districts to formally prohibit the use of wireless communication devices during instructional time. In response, the Appleton Area School District reviewed the new law and updated our Board Policy 443.5 Student Use of Personal Wireless Electronic Communication Devices, to ensure it aligns with state requirements and formally reflects practices already in place across our schools.

This update, which will be effective for the 2026-27 school year, brings district policy into compliance with state law while reinforcing expectations that have long guided classroom learning and student behavior. The Appleton Area School District wants students to be able to focus on learning while also helping them learn to use technology responsibly.

This policy applies to personal devices such as cell phones, tablets, laptops, smart gaming devices, smartwatches, and other wearable technology, as well as any device that can send messages, make calls, take photos or videos, record audio, or access the internet. 

• At the elementary and middle school levels, students follow a bell-to-bell expectation, meaning personal devices may not be used from the start of the school day until the end of the school day, including lunch, and should remain turned off and stored in a backpack or locker. 
• At the high school level, personal devices may not be used during instructional time but may be used during lunch and passing periods. 

Exceptions are allowed for emergencies or safety concerns, documented medical needs, assistive technology documented in an IEP or 504 plan, or when a staff member specifically approves device use for a learning activity.

Schools will also be sharing additional information as we get closer to the school year. If you have specific questions or concerns, please contact your school.