Evanston-Skokie School District 65.students head back to school Monday with new cell phone policy
Share and Follow

SKOKIE, Ill. (WLS) — It’s back to school Monday morning for students and staff in Evanston-Skokie School District 65.

It will be the last first day for one school that is closing at the end of this school year. And more schools could be next.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Monday will be a bittersweet day for students and staff at Doctor Bessie Rhodes School of Global Studies.

In a letter to families, the principal says the school has welcomed hundreds of students and educators the last three decades.

Their school theme this year is “Mission Completed: Leaving and Launching a Legacy”, which recognizes the accomplishments and milestones reached by families and staff over the years.

This will be their last first day since it will close by the end of the school year.

The new school year at Evanston- Skokie School District 65 comes a district leaders have been discussing for months more potential closings.

The district has been dealing with three consecutive budget deficits and declining enrollment.

Administrators believe that school closures could help out the district in a better financial position.

The next round of school closures will be discussed during a board meeting on September 29.

New rules also take effect with the new school year.

Students will no longer be allowed to use cell phones during the school day.

According to the policy, phones will have to be powered off and left in a locker or in a designated classroom storage unit.

Phones will be permitted for students who have a documented medical need or as part of an IEP or 504 plan for special education accommodations.

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Birmingham man arrested after Homewood police chase results in crash

Birmingham Resident Apprehended Following High-Speed Pursuit and Collision in Homewood

In Homewood, Alabama, a suspect linked to a series of vehicle break-ins…
Lincoln University shooting: Multiple shooters suspected; FBI seeking photo, video evidence after 1 killed, 6 hurt

Lincoln University Incident: FBI Requests Photo and Video Evidence in Investigation of Fatal Shooting with Multiple Suspects

In LOWER OXFORD TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Uncertainty still looms large over the…
'No plans on moving': Liam Coen shuts down trade rumors surrounding Jaguars' WR Brian Thomas Jr.

Liam Coen Debunks Trade Rumors: Jaguars’ WR Brian Thomas Jr. Staying Put

In his regular press briefing, Head Coach Liam Coen dismissed any speculation…
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to troops aboard USS George Washington

Trump Engages with US Troops in Japan and Secures Crucial Rare Earths Agreement

President Donald Trump on Tuesday highlighted his recent trade agreements while visiting…
Dillon Mitchell excited to showcasing 'X-Factor' skills for St. John's

Dillon Mitchell Ready to Unleash Unique Talents for St. John’s

The phrase “point forward” brings a grin to Dillon Mitchell’s face, a…
New treatment destroys 90% of skin cancer cells in just 30 minutes

Innovative Therapy Eradicates 90% of Skin Cancer Cells in Just 30 Minutes

Scientists have unveiled a revolutionary light therapy capable of destroying cancer cells…
Blue city sex offender accused of violent attack on elite university campus weeks after release: report

Recently Paroled Offender Allegedly Commits Violent Assault at Prestigious University

A 31-year-old man with a prior record as a registered sex offender…
LCPD: Three arrested after string of home invasions, burglaries in Lake City area

Lake City Police Department: Trio Apprehended Following Series of Home Invasions and Burglaries

In a bold series of crimes that alarmed the Lake City community,…