(update: adding video, comments from principal, teachers and students)
REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) – If you step into Redmond High School, you might notice a lack of cell phones.
The Redmond School District began enforcing its new cell phone ban at the start of the school year, in line with Governor Tina Kotek’s executive order restricting phone use in Oregon schools.
This ban also includes devices including smartwatches, smart glasses and earbuds.
The goal is to boost student focus and improve mental health by reducing distractions.
Principal Audrey Haugan said the adjustment has gone smoother than expected.
“We’ve seen such a change in the way kids are communicating with each other,” Haugan said Thursday. “I think it was the second day of school. I was standing in the hallway and I turned to our assistant principal, and he said, ‘Jason, it’s so loud! Why is it so loud?’ And we realize it’s because kids are talking to each other.”
Students say reactions have been largely positive, though some are still getting used to the change.
“I would say for the first, like three weeks, it was really good. But then some kids started pushing the limits,” said student Solomon Beget. “But overall, it’s been way better.”
Some students say the cell phone ban can be inconvenient when trying to meet up with friends during lunch.
English teacher Virginia Johnson has long advocated for fewer cell phones in classrooms, noting that students are now more attentive and engaged during lessons.
“People see this as a punishment, and it’s not,” Johnson said. “You’re giving them a gift. You’re only in high school for a very short amount of time, and it’s a time to be with your friends. It’s time to focus and learn new things.”
Student Ethan Urhausen agreed.
“Definitely more focused, with all the less distractions and phones going off. It’s been a pretty positive experience, having none of that happening in class,” Urhausen said. “Overall, I saw it as a very important and necessary thing we needed to do.”
The school district addressed concerns from parents worried about student safety in emergencies. Haugan said phones are still allowed on campus, but must stay out of reach during class.
“Our policy is that when they get to class, that has to be in their backpack, and their backpack has to be away from them. So in the back of the classroom,” Haugan said.
The school has a three-step disciplinary process for students caught using their devices.
District leaders plan to revisit the policy in a few months, to see if adjustments are needed.
Other local school districts, including Crook County and Bend-La Pine Schools, plan to implement similar cell phone restrictions next year. According to Governor Kotek, all policies must be in effect no later than Jan. 1, 2026.
