Denver Public Schools start school year with strict cellphones and more policy
Aug 18, 2026, 7:04 PM
When Denver Public Schools head back to class on August 24th, students are walking into a brand new reality: No phones. All day. Period.
DPS has officially rolled out a “bell-to-bell” ban on personal communication devices — and they’re not messing around.
Cell phones, smartwatches, wireless earbuds, personal laptops — all of it has to be turned off and stored during the entire school day.
That includes passing periods, lunch, bathroom breaks, and even field trips.
And don’t think you can just slip it in your pocket.
Phones can’t be stored in clothing — they go in backpacks, lockers, or designated school storage areas.
If your device makes a sound, vibrates, or is even visible, that’s a violation.
Staff can confiscate it, though DPS says they will not search the device.
Parents worried about emergencies can call the front office to get a message to their student. And during lockdowns or active emergencies, students still won’t have access to their phones — the district says devices can interfere with first responders and spread false information.
Love it or hate it, DPS is all in. And honestly? Some of us adults could use a bell-to-bell policy too.)
