District takes “critical look” at cell phone policy; Village Elementary academics strong

The Coronado Unified School District is poised to take a critical look at its current cell phone policy at all four of its campuses, according to district leaders. At Thursday’s school board meeting, the governing board directed Superintendent Karl Mueller and his staff to bring back best practices on tightening restrictions when it comes to school cell phone use.

The current cell phone policy, revised in May 2025, allows cell phones on campus but they must be stowed in “cell phone pockets” during class. This complies with the California Phone Free School Act, which takes effect in 2026.

“Our current policy restricts use during instructional time and allows for cell phones to be used at break and lunch,” said Mueller. “What I’m hearing from the governing board is the desire to bring back