Kahok Families,

As we do every year, Collinsville CUSD #10 has been carefully reviewing and updating the student handbook in preparation for the upcoming school year. The changes for 2025-26 were recommended by district administration and approved by the Board of Education at their May 19, 2025, meeting.

The 2025-26 handbook will be posted on the district website and shared with families during student registration. Due to significant changes regarding student cell phone and personal electronic device use, we are sharing this information early and often to give families time to discuss expectations before the school year begins on August 11th.

Why Was The Cell Phone/Personal Electronic Device Policy Changed?

Research shows that limiting personal electronic device use during instructional time helps foster a more focused, engaging, and respectful learning environment.  The Collinsville CUSD 10 Personal Electronic Device Policy has been updated to:

• Maximize learning and minimize distractions

• Encourage in-person interactions and build community within our schools

What’s Considered a Personal Electronic Device?

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Cell phones and smartphones

• Headphones, earbuds

• Smart glasses (e.g., Meta A)

• Recording devices

• iPods®, iPads®, PDAs, laptops, tablets, or similar technology

What is the Policy for Each School?

The previous policy banned cell phone use in elementary, intermediate and middle school.  No changes were made at those grade levels.  The new policy that goes into effect beginning in the 2025-26 school year limits electronic devices at Collinsville High School.  PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION CAREFULLY AND SHARE WITH YOUR CHILD(REN).

Collinsville High School (CHS):

• Devices must be powered off and out of sight during all instructional time, passing periods, and in academic areas (including study halls).

• Permitted use before the 7:40 AM bell and during a student’s assigned lunch period in the cafeteria or cafeteria patio.

• School-issued Chromebooks may be used in class as directed by the teacher.

• Headphones/earbuds are not allowed during the school day.

Middle School, Intermediate, and Elementary Schools:

• Devices must be powered off and out of sight from the moment students enter the building until they leave.

• No device use is allowed during the school day, including during lunch or recess.

• Students must use the office phone to contact parents during school hours.

• Headphones/earbuds are not allowed during the school day.

What are the Consequences for Policy Violations?

All disciplinary action is determined case-by-case and may include:

1. Parent/guardian notification

2. Disciplinary conference

3. Loss of privileges (no refund)

4. Temporary removal from class

5. Restrictions from school grounds/events

6. Confiscation or restitution for damages

7. In-school suspension

8. Confiscation and temporary retention of the device

9. Loss of bus privileges

We strongly encourage families to talk with their student(s) about these expectations now.  Our goal is to support students' academic success, well-being and positive social interactions.  

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s building principal.  

Have a safe and enjoyable summer!

Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D.

Superintendent