07/28/2026
Update on Personal Communication Devices:
HB 2299 prohibits student use and display of personal communication devices at school from “bell to bell” during the school day, including during lunch and passing periods. Exceptions are allowed if authorized by an IEP, Section 504 Plan, medical accommodation or other exception permitted by district policy or law. If a student needs to communicate with family during the school day, with staff approval, they can use the office or classroom phone during passing or lunch.
The law does not restrict the district issued Chromebooks. These are allowed and 9-12 graders should bring them to school fully charged for learning activities.
USD 477 encourages students to not bring their personal communication devices in the building. However, if they do, they will be asked to power them off and store them away in a locked school issued locker for the entire day. They will not be accessed during passing or lunch. Students may use personal electronic communication devices before school, after school, and during school-sponsored activities occurring outside the regular school day, subject to school rules and staff direction.
If a device is being used during school hours or is visible, it will be confiscated and secured in the office where administration will assign a consequence to the student based on the number of offenses. The attached graphic explains the consequences.
Please contact your building principal with any questions.
