07/31/2026
📱 A Change in Indiana Law: Student Device Policy for 2026–2027
As we prepare for the 2026–2027 school year, we want to make sure all families are aware of a change in Indiana law affecting student device use during the school day.
Under Indiana's new "bell-to-bell" law (Senate Enrolled Act 78), all public and charter schools are required to prohibit students from using and possessing cell phones, smartwatches, headphones, and gaming devices during the school day. In compliance with this law, Richmond Community Schools (RCS) has revised its personal electronic device policy.
📋 RCS Personal Electronic Device Policy — Beginning 2026–2027
✅ Students may not have personal electronic devices — including cell phones, smartwatches, wireless headphones/earbuds, tablets, or gaming devices — on their person at any time during the school day (bell-to-bell).
✅ Devices brought to school must be powered off and stored in the location designated by each building (such as a locker or cubbie) from the first bell until the last bell.
☎️ Need to Reach Your Student During the Day?
Call your school's main office and the message will be relayed. Students needing to contact home should visit the school office to make that request.
⚠️ Exceptions
* Riding an RCS school bus to and from school
* On corporation property outside the school day
* During after-school activities, at the discretion of the supervising adult
* On a school bus during school-sponsored activities outside the school day, at the driver's discretion
* Leaving campus for an appointment, Ivy Tech class, IU East class, or work-based learning (device must be returned to storage immediately upon returning to the building)
* Students with a documented IEP or 504 medical need — device use limited to that specific purpose
Each building will establish its own procedures and discipline guidelines to support this policy. Questions may be directed to your student's building principal.
Thank you for your cooperation as we work together to implement this change and comply with state law.
🔗 Read Senate Enrolled Act 78:https://iga.in.gov/pdf-documents/124/2026/senate/bills/SB0078/SB0078.08.ENRH.pdf
