From the desk of Mr. Kerr

Save the date:

Cell phone policy update:

Cell Phone Policy Updates 26-27

Dear Palmyra-Eagle Families,

As we prepare for the upcoming 2026-27 school year, we want to share an important update regarding student use of cell phones and personal communication devices at the high school level.

Alignment with Wisconsin Legislation and Board Policy
In alignment with 2025 Wisconsin Act 42, which requires every school board in the state to adopt and report a wireless communication device policy by July 1, 2026, the Palmyra-Eagle Area High School has updated its student handbook guidelines to ensure a focused and safe learning environment. These changes are supported by existing PEASD Board Policy.  Note that school districts across the state are revising their cell phone policy practices as a result of this legislative update.  

2026-27 High School Policy Updates:  Palmyra-Eagle HS
Beginning in the 2026-27 school year, Palmyra-Eagle High School students will be required to store their cell phones in their lockers prior to the start of every class period.

While devices must remain in lockers during instructional time, high school students will continue to be permitted to use their phones in a responsible manner during their scheduled lunch period and in the hallways between classes. Students may not possess these devices in classrooms unless a teacher has given explicit, advance approval for a specific instructional purpose.  Other exceptions include in an emergency situation or in accordance with a student’s health plan, IEP, or 504 plan.  

Benefits of phone-free classrooms include, but are not limited to:

• Academic Outcomes Improve

• Cheating Decreases

• Face to Face Engagement Increases

• Mid-Class Absenteeism Decreases

• Mental Health Improves

• Focus and Productivity Improve

• Teacher Morale and Retention Improve

• Practicing Independence Increases

• Safety Improves
  Source: anxiousgeneration.com/phone-free-schools 

Consistency Across the Middle and High Schools This requirement for high school classes aligns more closely with the established Palmyra-Eagle Middle School policy, where all electronic devices must remain in student lockers throughout the entire school day.

Academic Integrity and Privacy These policies are in place to protect the learning environment and student privacy. Per Board Policy, personal communication devices may never be used in locations where there is an expectation of privacy, such as locker rooms or restrooms. Additionally, students are prohibited from using devices for academic dishonesty (such as capturing test information) or for any form of bullying, harassment, or "sexting".

Our goal is to return the focus of the classroom to teaching and learning. We believe that by keeping these devices in lockers during instructional time, we can reduce distractions and better support our students’ academic success.

Additional related resources, information, and handbook updates will continue to be shared with families as we keep the focus on learning during the school day.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support! Please reach out if you have any questions regarding these changes. 

Assessment results: