The Madison Metropolitan School District’s Board of Education has adopted a new wireless communication policy and approved updates to an existing device possession policy, establishing clear expectations for student cell phone and personal device use during the school day beginning in the 2026–27 school year.
“The changes bring MMSD into compliance with 2025 Wisconsin Act 42 while supporting the district’s ongoing efforts to maximize instructional time, reduce distractions and create learning experiences where students can engage with their teachers and peers,” said Deputy Superintendent TJ McCray.
Policy 4404: Wireless communication during the school day
Under newly adopted Board Policy 4404:
- Students in kindergarten through eighth grade will be required to keep personal wireless communication devices turned off and stored throughout the school day, including during lunch, recess and passing periods.
- High school students will be required to keep devices turned off and stored during instructional periods, including classes, assemblies, field trips, scheduled labs and passing time.
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The policy applies to a broad range of personal wireless devices, including cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, gaming devices and other web-enabled technology. District-issued instructional devices are not affected by the policy.
Policy 4403: Device possession and privacy expectations
Board Policy 4403 continues to permit students to bring devices to school while clarifying expectations around their use and reinforcing restrictions on recording or transmitting information involving students, staff or volunteers, as well as device use in bathrooms, locker rooms and other private spaces.
Both policies include exceptions for emergencies, health care needs, students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or Section 504 plans, and teacher-authorized instructional use.
Implementation and family engagement
The district’s implementation framework emphasizes digital citizenship, supportive redirection and collaboration with students and families. The approach includes progressive interventions designed to help students develop healthy technology habits and self-regulation skills.
Prior to the 2026–27 school year, an implementation plan will be put in place to help educate students, staff and families about these policies.
Policy 4404 was developed over the past year in partnership with graduate student-researchers and policy experts from the University of Wisconsin–Madison's La Follette School of Public Affairs. As part of that work, MMSD surveyed students, staff and families during the winter to better understand current device use, identify concerns and gather feedback on potential restrictions and implementation approaches.
