Personal Electronic Communication Devices
Lawrence Public Schools will join all Kansas school districts in implementing a personal electronic communication device-free school environment throughout the school day for all PK–12 students across all campuses, as required by Kansas House Bill 2299.
All personal electronic communication devices—including cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, tablets, laptops, and other similar personal devices—are prohibited during the school day for all students at all grade levels. Exemptions are permitted for Individualized Education Plan accommodations, Section 504 Plan accommodations, or when required as medically necessary to support health needs as provided under state law and district policy.
For more information about our continuing work to prioritize a distraction-free instructional environment in Lawrence Public Schools, please see the July 27, 2026 Superintendent statement or access additional information at AwayfortheDay.org.
Lawrence Public Schools will implement a Cell Phone-Free Instructional Day beginning January 6, 2025, to prioritize and enhance focus on teaching and learning.
Student Cell Phone Expectations
Cell phones and personal electronic devices must be off and stored out of sight during instructional hours; devices should not be seen, heard, or interfere with instruction.
All Students
Students may use personal electronic devices during the scheduled school day in emergencies or, if necessary, for the student’s physical health.
The policy applies to all students and includes flexibility for high school students. For example, cell phones are prohibited all day for elementary students, but high school students may use their phones during designated times, such as passing times and at lunch, reflecting an age-appropriate increased level of responsibility.
Elementary Students, PK-5th Grades
Personal technology devices (cell phones, smart watches, earbuds, etc.) must be kept in backpacks. Cell phone use or personal electronic devices are not allowed during the scheduled school day for early childhood through fifth-grade students.
Middle Schools Students, Grades 6-8
Student use of cell phones and personal electronic devices at the middle school level is prohibited during class time and passing periods. Principals may use their discretion when deciding on device use during lunch periods.
Administrative Discretion: Principals, in collaboration with their school teams, determine when personal devices may be utilized outside instructional times, such as field trips.
High School Students, Grades 9-12
Student use of cell phones and personal electronic devices at the high school level is prohibited during class time unless utilized for a specific instructional purpose, as directed by the teacher. However, high school students can use personal electronic devices during non-instructional activities, i.e., lunch and passing periods.
Administrative Discretion: Principals, in collaboration with their school teams, determine when personal devices can be used outside the instructional day, such as field trips or activities.
Guidelines for Responsible Phone Use
- Mindful Usage: Please use phones responsibly, avoiding excessive screen time and ensuring it does not disrupt others.
- Respectful Behavior: Consider others around you and maintain a positive atmosphere.
- Responsible Digital Citizenship: Maintain online safety and refrain from cyberbullying.
Alternatives for Communication and Technology
School-provided technology will be available for instructional use when necessary. School office phones allow students to contact family members during the day. Parents and guardians can reach students in emergencies by calling the school’s main office, ensuring timely communication without requiring student cell phone use.