To foster a learning environment that helps students focus, connect with peers, and fully engage in school—without digital distractions—the Shoreline Education Association (SEA) and the district worked together through bargaining to create the “Off and Away” agreement. This has been implemented at all Shoreline schools, with an emphasis at middle and high schools, where student cell phone and personal electronic device use is more prevalent.

Why This Change?

Research shows that limiting phone use during the school day:

• Improves focus, learning, and engagement
• Supports students’ mental and physical health
• Reduces social pressures, distractions, and cyberbullying

This change supports our goal of maintaining an environment where all students can thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally. 

What It Means for Students This Year

Devices include: Cell phones, earbuds, smartwatches, GPS trackers, and similar electronics.

Exceptions: All accommodations and decisions will continue to align with IDEA, Section 504, and ADA requirements to ensure students with disabilities receive appropriate access and support.

What Families Can Expect

• Students will not have access to phones during the school day (except for high school lunch).
• Please plan to contact the main office if you have an emergency need to reach your child during school hours, and remind them to call you from the school office phone if needed. Office staff can look up parent/guardian phone numbers for students who do not have them memorized.

How to Engage on This Topic

• The District and SEA will host two community forums to share teacher perspective, gather parent/guardian input, and share details and the importance of the plan to eliminate the negative impacts of cell phones and other personal devices in the learning environment.

  • Community Forum #1
    • Monday, December 1
    • Evening start time TBD
    • Shorewood High School Theatre 17300 Fremont Ave. N
  • Community Forum #2
    • Wednesday, December 3
    • Evening start time TBD
    • Shorecrest High School Theatre, 15343 25th Ave. NE
• In spring 2026, the District and SEA will establish a joint committee to gather feedback from students, staff, and families through a survey about how the “Off and Away” expectation is working. They’ll review the results to assess how effective the expectation has been, explore options for additional tools, and make recommendations for possible adjustments to the plan for the 2026–2027 school year.