SMUHSD Board Meeting - March 26, 2026

The San Mateo Union High School District (SMUHSD) Board Meeting held on March 26, 2026, focused primarily on the discussion and eventual approval of a district-wide bell-to-bell cell phone restriction policy for students. After extensive public comments from parents, teachers, students, and community members highlighting concerns about distractions, mental health, and social development, the board voted unanimously (5-0) to develop a policy (BP 5131.8) restricting smartphone use throughout the entire school day. The board acknowledged implementation challenges, including costs estimated between $160,000 and $250,000 annually for phone pouches and enforcement, and emphasized the need for consistent enforcement and digital citizenship education. Additionally, the meeting included routine consent agenda approvals, renewal of E-rate subsidized internet service agreements with AT&T, and approval of updated developer fee rates. The board also discussed future agenda items and study sessions for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.