The State of Missouri has passed a new law banning cell phones from K-12 schools. The cell phone ban, outlined in Senate Bill No. 1481, was passed by the Missouri State Legislature on May 13, 2025.
The law governs the possession and use of cellular phones on school property and during school events, as well as their use during instructional time, with certain exceptions made for emergencies and specific educational or health needs.
The primary reasons for this cell phone ban are to reduce distractions that impede learning and classroom management, enhance safety, reduce cyberbullying and tackle mental health issues.
Research has linked excessive phone use and social media engagement to increased anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges among students.
RGSD will continue to enforce its existing policy restricting the use of cell phones in schools. Secondary scholars will continue to utilize phone pouches during the school day.
More details regarding enforcement and consequences of violating the district’s cell phone policy will be listed in the updated RGSD Student Handbook and the RGSD Discipline Guide.
Students in all grades should be prepared to put their phones away. It’s the law!
RGSD Policy EHB: TECHNOLOGY USAGE
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This act requires all public school districts and public charter schools to promulgate a written policy regarding student possession and use of cellular phones by July 1, 2025. Such a policy shall address the possession of cellular phones on school property or at school functions and the use of cellular phones during instructional time.
The act outlines certain provisions that may be included in such a policy, including provisions regarding the use of cellular phones for educational purposes and the designation of an area where cellular phones may be permitted to be used. The policy may provide that a student who possesses or uses a cellular phone in violation of the policy may be subject to disciplinary action. (https://www.senate.mo.gov/24info/BTS_Web/Summary.aspx?SessionType=R&SummaryID=3588176&BillID=5984737)