Ardmore City Schools Personal Electronic Device Policy

Devices Off. Learning On.

To help students focus, reduce stress, and build real-life connections, Ardmore City Schools has adopted a district-wide “Disconnect to Reconnect” policy in alignment with Senate Bill 139. From the first bell to the last, all personal electronic devices must be powered off and put away.

What the Law Requires:

Senate Bill 139 goes into effect on July 1, 2025, and applies to all public school districts.

• For the 2025-2026 school year, each school district Board of Education shall adopt a policy prohibiting students from using cell phones and personal electronic devices while on the campus of a public school district from bell-to-bell (Makes exceptions for medical needs).

• For the 2026-2027 school year and beyond, continued enforcement is optional, and more local control is given.

• The law addresses use, not possession.

• Goes into effect July 1, 2025.

What’s Changing?

Beginning July 1, 2025, students will follow these expectations from bell to bell:

Not Allowed to be Used During the School Day:

• Cell phones

• Smartwatches

• Earbuds or headphones

• iPods or smart glasses

• Any device that connects to a network

Allowed:

• Before the first bell

• After the dismissal bell

• Emergency situations such as natural disasters or lockdowns

• Medical emergencies (for example, asthma attacks or seizures)

• Health monitoring for medical needs such as glucose monitoring

• Assistive technology outlined in a student’s IEP, 504 Plan, or medical plan