The new phone policy of Kaukauna schools aims to enhance learning and benefit students and staff.

Kaukauna, Wis. (WFRV) – For the upcoming school year, Kaukauna students will face new rules about when and where they can use their phones.

The district superintendent told Local 5's Ellie Davis that a survey released to teachers and parents revealed that phones in the classroom are an issue.

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"Phones in the classroom are a major distraction for students, even if they are in their pocket, or a smart watch on the wrist, the buzzing is redirecting the students' attention away from the learning," said Superintendent Mike Slowinski.

It's called the personal electronic policy, which limits phone use at a grade-based level. And district leaders tell me these new rules will keep students' attention in the classroom.

"The policy sets aside instructional time as time for students to be present with their learning, present with their instructional time, and present with each other. So we can make sure they achieve as much as possible," Slowinski said.

Kari Moser, a parent of three, said her children were shocked but that she is happy about it.

"It's good, now you guys will listen in class," Kari Moser said.

Kaukauna High School senior Adalie Hungerford says that it will be easy to adjust if everyone follows the rule.

If no one is on their phone, then it's not an issue," Hungerford said. "Group chats won't go off and you won't get the text messages, so you won't really be missing out on anything.

Slowinski says changes before the school year are aimed at helping students.

"We felt like this was the time to start a school year with a policy that is much better than getting to the middle of the year instead of changing course," Slowinski said.

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This type ofPolicy is becoming more common nationwide., and Hungerford said it will be beneficial as students get used to it.

"Once we get used to it, I think it's going to benefit us," Hungerford said.

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