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Electronic Personal Communication Devices

Minor changes to current policy on use of 

ELECTRONIC PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES

 

On May 13, 2025, the Missouri legislature recently passed a new law (Senate Bill 68) requiring all school districts to adopt clear policies restricting student use of personal electronic communication devices during the school day. This policy is in effect for the entirety of the school day, from the first to the last bell, including passing periods and lunch. The law, which aims to reduce distractions and improve student engagement, takes effect on the first day of the upcoming school year.

Below is a quick look at what you can expect this year.

  • Students may not use cell phones, earbuds/wireless headphones, or other personal electronic devices at any point during the school day, including transitions, lunch, and other non-instructional times. Smartwatches may be worn as a watch, but cannot be used as a communication device. Please note, your child will remain in possession of their electronic communication device, but the device must remain unused and secured during the school day to support a focused learning environment.
  • Considerations will be made for students with specific educational or medical needs, as outlined in a student’s IEP, 504 Plan, or individual health plan.
  • In the event of an emergency, protocols are in place at every school. Staff are trained to respond quickly and communicate effectively with students and families. In any crisis, student safety will always take priority over device expectations.

We recognize that our students will be adjusting to these new expectations in the first days of school. You can support them by having conversations now about what will be expected. If we work together, we can help our students build healthier and more productive technology habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We understand that some students may need access to their phones for health-related purposes, such as monitoring health conditions. Please contact your school administration and building nurse to ensure appropriate accommodations are in place to meet the student’s medical needs.

  • Although this will be done on a limited basis, if a teacher determines that a cell phone or other device is necessary for a specific activity or lesson, they can permit students to use their devices during that time.

  • Consequences will clearly be stated in each building’s handbook. A link will provided here mid-August pending Board of Education approval of each handbook.  

  • You may contact the main office, and a staff member will ensure your message is relayed to your child at an appropriate time. 

  • In an emergency, staff would allow students to use their personal devices to communicate with families. This ensures student safety while minimizing daily classroom disruptions.

    Emergencies are defined in policy as a serious, unexpected, and dangerous situation that requires immediate action, including, but not limited to, immediate safety threats to the school, an active fire, tornado or earthquake, an evacuation of school grounds, or a medical emergency.