Denver Public Schools’ Communication Devices Advisory Committee (CDAC) met for the first time on Tuesday January 27, to continue shaping recommendations for a districtwide cell phone policy. We wanted to share a quick update on what happened, what we’re hearing, and how it connects directly to our work on phone-free schools.
As shown below, CDAC will meet twice a month through April, and we will be present to keep the community informed on their progress:
- January 27, 2026
- February 3, 2026
- February 10, 2026
- February 24, 2026
- March 10, 2026
- March 24, 2026
- April 7, 2026
Who was at the table
The committee brings together a broad range of voices: parents, educators, principals, mental health professionals, community advocates, and students. All are grappling with the same core question: How do we create school environments where students can learn, connect, and thrive without constant digital distraction?
What the conversation focused on
Committee members reviewed examples from other Colorado districts that have already implemented administrative cell phone policies, including BVSD, Adams 12, Colorado Springs, D11, and Mesa. A few key themes came up repeatedly:
- Clarity matters. Policies need simple, student-friendly language that clearly names which devices are covered and when they’re restricted.
- Bell-to-bell consistency. Many members emphasized that “all or nothing” approaches are easier to understand and enforce, especially when phones are kept away for the full school day.
- The “why” is essential. Framing phone-free policies as a way to protect student mental health, learning time, and social connection — not as punishment — resonated strongly.
- Age-appropriate supports. There was recognition that older students may need additional support, communication, and buy-in.
- Emergency access. Families’ concerns about emergencies were discussed, with an emphasis on clear, reliable school-based communication systems.
- Evidence-based policy. Committee members lifted up research showing improved focus, stronger social skills, and even higher student happiness and academic outcomes when phones are limited during the school day.
What’s next
- April 7: CDAC finalizes its recommendations
- April 15: Recommendations are presented to the DPS Board of Education
- April–June: Policy drafting and refinement
There is also an opportunity for public comment at upcoming meetings, with time set aside at the beginning for community voices.
Why this matters for our work
Everything discussed reinforces what we’ve been saying all along: bell-to-bell phone-free policies are an equity-centered, evidence-based investment in students. When phones are away all day, students get more learning time, stronger relationships, and healthier school cultures, and educators can focus on teaching instead of policing screens.
We’ll continue showing up, sharing research, and lifting up parent and educator voices to ensure DPS prioritizes students with the strongest policy.
Thank you for staying engaged and standing with us as we advocate for school environments where students can truly be present.
