Dear SBMS Families,

I am writing to share information about an upcoming districtwide update related to student use of personal electronic devices (such as cell phones, smartwatches, and personal earbuds) during the school day.

Beginning January 1, 2026, Eugene School District 4J will implement updated expectations under Board Policy JFCEB and its Administrative Regulation (JFCEB-AR). These expectations align with statewide guidance issued through a Governor’s Executive Order and are designed to support student focus, well-being, safety, and belonging. Current middle school expectations are already aligned with Administrative Regulation (JFCEB-AR) and the Governor’s Executive Order.

What to Expect

• January 2026 will be a learning and calibration period. Staff will teach expectations, practice routines with students, and answer questions.

• February 1, 2026 marks full implementation, with consistent application across schools.
  
  

For additional details, including answers to common questions, please review the Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) Family FAQ, available here: FAQ LINK HERE. This page will be under construction in January and will be updated as additional guidance and resources become available.

What This Means at Our Middle School

This is not a significant change from our school’s current policy and procedures. During the instructional day, personal electronic devices are expected to be off and away. 

Off and away means devices are powered off and not visible or in use during learning time, unless explicitly authorized by staff. The largest change at SBMS is that this expectation will now also extend to smartwatches.

• Students will be asked to store their devices in their lockers and remain there for the instructional day (from the first bell to the last bell).

• Devices should not be accessed during class, passing times, or lunch unless staff approval is given. 

• Students who need to communicate with families will be supported through school systems and staff. Students are always able to call their authorized contacts using a school phone, or they can come to the office to call or text authorized contacts using their personal electronic device.

• Students who require device access for medical, instructional, or documented reasons will continue to receive appropriate supports.

For more information, please visit our district website.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at nolan_p@4j.lane.edu or 541-790-8300. We are currently on winter break and I will return to the office on 1/5/26. I will return messages starting 1/5/26. You may also email the district at PED@4j.lane.edu.

Warmly,

Paula

Paula Nolan

Principal

Spencer Butte Middle School

541-790-8300 | nolan_p@4j.lane.edu