Dear Catholic School Families,
As we begin the 2026–2027 school year, our Catholic schools will strengthen expectations for student use of cell phones and personal electronic devices during the school day.
These devices can distract from learning, friendship, prayer, and healthy student development. In keeping with Kansas law, our schools will follow a consistent bell-to-bell expectation.
From the start of the school day until dismissal, students may not use personal electronic communication devices. This includes cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, wireless headphones or earbuds, and similar devices. Devices must be turned off and stored according to each school’s procedures. Exceptions will remain available for documented medical and educational needs.
I believe this will be a real gift for our students. It will help them focus, build friendships, think deeply, pray together, and be fully present with classmates and teachers.
Pope Leo XIV reminds us that families and schools are partners in helping children form relationships, think critically, embrace solid values, and use technology responsibly.
Technology can support learning, creativity, communication, and service. Still, it must remain a tool guided by good judgment, healthy boundaries, and respect for each person.
As Bishop Jerry Vincke reminds us: “Our Catholic schools are at their best when families, educators, and students work together as we strive to form the whole person. This partnership will help our young people become attentive learners, thoughtful disciples, and responsible users of technology.”
Families can help by reinforcing these expectations at home, encouraging healthy technology habits, and contacting the school office when an urgent message must reach a student. Each school will share its procedures for storing devices and responding to policy violations.
This supports the environment our Catholic schools are committed to providing: excellent education rooted in truth, meaningful conversation, critical thinking, lasting relationships, and growth as disciples of Jesus Christ.
Thank you for entrusting your children to our Catholic schools. Together, let us help them become attentive learners, responsible users of technology, compassionate neighbors, and disciples of Jesus on mission.
May God bless our students, families, educators, and school communities throughout the coming year.
Geoff Andrews, Superintendent of Schools