Personal Device Policy

This update brings our district in line with a new Missouri state law that requires public schools to restrict the use of personal electronic devices during the school day to promote a focused, healthy learning environment for all students.

All personal electronic communication devices, such as:
    •    Cell phones
    •    Smartwatches
    •    Tablets/iPads
    •    Laptops
    •    Wireless earbuds or headphones
    •    Any portable device used to send, receive, view, or store communication, data, or images

During the 2025-26 school year, personal laptops and/or chromebooks are permitted for instructional purposes only. Following the 2025-26 school year, these devices will not be allowed.

Students may not use or display devices at any time between the first bell and the last bell, even during:
    •    Passing time
    •    Lunch
    •    Study halls
    •    Breaks or recess

During the 2025-26 school year, personal laptops and/or chromebooks are permitted for instructional purposes only. Following the 2025-26 school year, these devices will not be allowed.

Call the school’s main office. Staff will ensure your child receives the message.

In emergencies, students will be allowed to use their devices to contact families. Families of students in high school can email their student’s Webster email account if needed. While we understand the convenience of texting, our goal is to keep classrooms free of interruptions and focused on learning. 

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.

Device use is only permitted if:
    •    It is written into an IEP, 504 Plan, or medical health care plan
    •    There is a verified emergency (e.g., lockdown, fire, medical situation)
    •    A teacher or staff member has given permission for an educational activity

During the 2025-26 school year, personal laptops and/or chromebooks are permitted for instructional purposes only. Following the 2025-26 school year, these devices will not be allowed.

Devices may be used outside of school hours, including during before or after school activities. The new law and policy restricts personal deviceuse during the school day or bell-to-bell.

Device use during before and after school will be guided by Right at School staff and policies. Current policy is that personal devices such as cell phones, tablets and smartwatches are not displayed. Students will be asked to put them away.

Unauthorized use may result in disciplinary action or confiscation.

• Confiscated devices may be returned to the student or, at the school’s discretion, to a parent or guardian. 
• Repeated violations may lead to disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct

More details regarding student discipline will be shared later.

Talk with your student ahead of time about the new rules and why they’re in place
    •    Practice phone-free time at home
    •    Remind them that school is a place for learning and connection
    •    Encourage them to keep devices powered off and in backpacks or lockers
    •    Establish a routine at home that supports focused time without screens

• Here are some resources that can help you when having conversations with your students:
  • We Asked Experts To Answer the Top 5 Questions Parents Have About Kids’ Smartphone Use
  • What Happens To Your Body When You Have Too Much Screen Time
  • The Great Rewiring of Childhood