SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — The Granite School District kicked off the new school year on Wednesday with the opening of two rebuilt schools and the implementation of a district-wide cell phone policy designed to reduce distractions and improve student well-being.
Damaged school completely rebuilt
West Lake Junior High students returned to a completely rebuilt campus that replaced the structure damaged in the 2020 earthquake. The new facility features improved security systems and modern amenities.
Skyline High School also unveiled its new academic and athletic building. The district plans to complete a performing arts building on the site by 2026.
The old Skyline High School was permanently closed at the end of the last school year.
Strict ban on mobile devices in Granite School District
In response to concerns from parents and local council members, the Granite School District has implemented a new cell phone policy at all schools.
- From kindergarten to 8th grade, cell phone use is completely prohibited from the first to the last ring.
- In grades 9 – 12, mobile devices are prohibited during class.
The district has purchased bags so students can keep their phones with them without violating regulations.
Andrea Stringham, spokeswoman for the Granite School District, explained the reasons for the new rules.
“Bullying and harassment often occurs through social media and distracting text messages,” she said. “It’s damaging to students’ mental health, and that’s why we wanted to do something that would give teachers the ability to enforce this rule.”
It is also something that would “just help our students overall – academically, mentally and emotionally,” she added.
Unlike in previous years, this policy will be enforced districtwide to ensure uniformity across all schools, Stringham said.
