Dear Bethel Parents, Students, Families, and Staff,

Thank you to everyone who has already taken our recent survey about personal electronic devices in our schools. We’ve received thoughtful and valuable feedback from students, families, staff and community members —and we’re eager to continue the conversation. 

This is a follow-up communication to our July 25th message which can be found here. 

To gather even more input, we’ll be hosting a series of in-person and virtual meetings in mid-August. These sessions are open to all Bethel School District families, students, and staff as we work to develop school-based plans that reflect our community’s needs and meet new state requirements.

Upcoming Feedback Sessions:

• Tuesday, August 12 – Virtual Meeting Link, 5-6 p.m.

• Wednesday, August 13 – Virtual Meeting Link, 10 - 11 a.m.

• Thursday, August 14 – In-Person at Willamette High School Lecture Hall, 4-5 p.m.

If you haven’t yet taken the survey, we’d love to hear from you: Bethel 6-12th Grade Community Survey - Safe & Focused Learning Environments.

Background

Over the past decade, the widespread use of cell phones, smartwatches, and other personal electronic devices during the school day has made it increasingly difficult for students to stay focused and has contributed to growing concerns about youth mental health. In response, the State of Oregon issued Executive Order No. 25-09, requiring all public schools to adopt policies that restrict student use of personal electronic devices—such as phones and smartwatches—during instructional hours, including lunch and passing periods. This new rule is intended to reduce distractions and support student well-being, and it goes into effect immediately.

We are committed to gathering robust feedback before finalizing any changes. Just like every year, school-based expectations and processes will be shared before the start of school—but this year, we’re taking extra care to incorporate your voice in light of the new statewide directive.

Visit our new webpage for background information, FAQs, and ongoing updates: bethel.k12.or.us/cell-phone-policy

Thank you again for your partnership in creating safe, focused learning environments for all Bethel students. If you have questions, feel free to reach out to Dan Hedberg, Bethel Director of Secondary Education, at dan.hedberg@bethel.k12.or.us.