Focused Classroom Resources

Through SB178 in 2025, Utah school flipped the standard by limiting smartphone use in classrooms. This allows local control for establishing policies that plan for emergency, health, and learning needs.

Devices in Schools Resource Toolkit

In 2024, the Utah Legislature passed SB178 – School District and Charter School Policies on Cell Phone Use, requiring every public and charter school to adopt a policy limiting cell phone use during class time. The goal is to improve student focus, engagement, and learning by reducing distractions and encouraging in-person interaction.

Device Toolkit Resources

This School Device Policy Resource Toolkit provides practical guidance to help schools meet the requirements of Utah law and successfully implement effective, student-centered policies. Our aim is to make policy compliance straightforward while supporting schools in creating learning environments where students can thrive—free from unnecessary digital distractions.

Inside, you’ll find a brief overview of the law and its impact, evidence on why limiting cell phone use matters, and sample policy language for easy adoption or adaptation
Implementation tips and communication resources.

Creating Focused Classrooms: School Device Policy Resource Toolkit

General Resources

Focused Classrooms One Pager: Information about TPP’s initiative to create focused classrooms through SB69
Utah Code 53G-7-227: Current Utah state law requiring LEAs to have a policy on student-owned device use in school

Policy to Practice Webinar: Supporting Effective Device Policies in Schools Resources

Webinar Slides: Presentation from the devices in schools webinar on Feb 19, 2026
Webinar Video: Recording from the devices in schools webinar on Feb 19, 2026
Webinar Notes: Summary notes from the devices in schools webinar on Feb 19, 2026

Implementation Grant Resources for Utah LEAs/Schools

Focused Classroom Grant Announcement: Information about funding available to support device policy implementation and student engagement projects
Focused Classroom Grant Application Form: Applications due April 1, 2026

Let us help you!

The Policy Project is here to support Utah’s schools in creating focused classrooms. Please reach out with ideas, questions, or if you just want to connect! Contact lindsay@thepolicyproject.org.