Beginning with the 2025-26 school year, Clinton School District, along with all Missouri public schools, will implement a Cell Phone Free School Day in compliance with Missouri law (Senate Bill 68), which requires all districts to adopt policies limiting student use of personal electronic devices during school hours. This new approach is designed to support a more focused learning environment, foster respectful interactions, and create a safe, welcoming school climate for all students.
Under this policy, students will be expected to keep all personal devices powered off and out of sight from the first bell to the final dismissal bell. This includes time during class, lunch, breaks or recess, passing periods, study halls, and assemblies. Devices covered by this policy include cell phones, smartwatches, wireless headphones or earbuds, gaming devices, and tablets or laptops when not used for instruction.
There are a few exceptions, such as when device use is required by a student’s IEP or 504 Plan, during documented medical emergencies, before or after school hours, or when a teacher or administrator gives permission for an approved educational purpose.
To help students adjust, the district will take a progressive approach to addressing violations. A first offense will result in a verbal reminder from the teacher. A second offense will be addressed at the office level, with the parents picking up the cell phone from school. Repeated offenses may result in office-level consequences such as detention, In-School Suspension or the implementation of a Device Plan, requiring the student to check in their device each morning.
During the school day, devices should be stored in student backpacks (zipped and stowed away) or in lockers, where available. We understand families may need to reach students during the day; in such cases, please contact your school’s main office. Staff will ensure your message is delivered or will bring the student to the office if needed. In emergencies, students will always have access to communication through school personnel.
This policy is not about cutting off communication, but about encouraging responsible use and minimizing distractions so students can stay fully engaged in learning and building strong, in-person connections. For full details, you can view the policy on the district website, or contact your school principal or the Clinton School District central office at 660-885-2237.
