Safe and Focused Learning Environments in Bethel 

Dear Bethel School District Parents, Students, Families, and Staff,

Over the course of the past 10 years, there has been a dramatic rise in the number of middle and high school students who have regular access to cell phones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices during the school day. We’ve seen firsthand how these devices can disrupt students’ ability to stay engaged in class -and how constant access to social media can take a real toll on their mental health. As we get ready for the 2025-2026 school year, we want to share an important change taking place in all middle and high schools that we believe will help our students learn better and feel healthier while at school.

Earlier this summer, the State of Oregon issued Executive Order No. 25-09, which creates a new rule about personal electronic devices for all public schools in Oregon. This rule is meant to help every student succeed in school and address the negative impact that electronic devices can have on young people's mental health. Studies show that using these devices and social media a lot can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, sadness, and even thoughts of self-harm or suicide. This new rule starts right away.

Key aspects of Executive Order No. 25-09 include:

• Definition of Personal Electronic Device: This refers to any portable, electrically powered device capable of making and receiving calls and text messages, and accessing the internet independently from the school's network infrastructure. This includes, but is not limited to, cell phones, smart watches, and iPods. This does not include laptop computers.

• Restricted use of Electronic Devices During Instructional Hours: Every Oregon school district is required to have a policy that prohibits the use of personal electronic devices by students from the start of regular instructional hours until the end of regular instructional hours. This includes lunch times and passing periods between class periods. 

In the coming months, the Bethel School District will be revising district policies and practices to align with this executive order. Our goal is to create an optimal learning environment free from distractions, where students can fully engage in their education and thrive academically and emotionally. We believe this new policy will significantly contribute to supporting the mental health and well-being of our students, fostering a more focused and engaging learning environment for everyone.

Your feedback is critical as we develop and refine these policies and procedures. We invite you to share your thoughts and perspectives through our feedback survey: Bethel 6-12th Grade Community Survey - Safe & Focused Learning Environments. *We are specifically seeking feedback from families of middle and high school students, as they are the population most affected by these policies. 

We will share more detailed information about our district's specific personal electronic device policy as it is developed and finalized. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work together to implement these important changes for the benefit of all students in the Bethel School District.