CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. — Chambersburg Area School District officials have announced a significant shift in student device use for the 2026-27 school year, implementing a “bell-to-bell” cell phone policy for students in grades 6 through 12.
The new policy, outlined in a July 8 district communication to families, prohibits students from accessing personal cell phones or communication devices from the start of the first class period until the end of the school day.
District officials said the change is intended to reduce distractions, improve academic focus and support student well-being.
Under the policy, students will not be permitted to use phones during instructional time, lunch periods or other parts of the school day. Any communication between parents and students during school hours must go through school offices or approved channels.
At the middle school level, parents can contact students by calling CAMS North at 717-261-3366 or CAMS South at 717-261-3385. For high school students, parents are encouraged to email their child or contact school offices, including Chambersburg Area Senior High School at 717-261-3322 and CMS at 717-261-5656.
District leaders cited research on the effects of constant digital connectivity on adolescents as a key factor in the decision. According to the district, frequent phone notifications can contribute to anxiety and disrupt students’ ability to concentrate.
The policy is also designed to encourage in-person interaction among students. Officials noted that limiting phone access may help students build stronger social skills and reduce exposure to online conflicts during the school day.
In addition, administrators said removing phones from the classroom environment can improve cognitive performance, as studies suggest the presence of a device alone can reduce attention and memory capacity.
Students who feel ill during the school day are required to notify a teacher and obtain a pass to the school nurse. The district emphasized that students should not use personal devices to contact parents regarding illness or other concerns.
Cell phone violations will be treated as Level 1 offenses under the district’s discipline guidelines. Consequences may include verbal warnings, parent notification or detention, depending on administrative discretion.
District officials said the success of the policy will depend on cooperation between students, families and staff as schools work to create a focused and supportive learning environment.
