South Brown County Schools (USD 430) is committed to providing safe, engaging learning environments where students can focus on learning and building positive relationships. Beginning with the upcoming 26-27 school year, our district will implement new expectations regarding student communication devices in accordance with Kansas law (HB 2299).
The new law requires Kansas school districts to adopt policies limiting student use of personal communication devices during the school day. The purpose of the legislation is to reduce classroom distractions, improve student engagement, support student well-being, and create learning environments where students can fully participate in instruction.
A communication device includes cell phones, smartwatches, wireless earbuds, tablets not issued by the school, and other personal electronic devices capable of sending or receiving messages, accessing the internet, or making calls.
Please find the finalized district procedures for each building that comply with state law while considering the unique needs of our students, staff, and families. When devices may and may not be used during the school day.
HES | EMS | HHS |
Encouraged to leave devices at home. | Encouraged to leave devices at home. | Encouraged to leave devices at home OR secure in personal vehicles. |
Devices will be stored in backpacks at their cubbies from bell to bell (7:55 AM - 3:30 PM). | Devices will be kept in student lockers. | Devices will be turned into the office and stored in a cabinet that is inaccessible to students from bell to bell (8:00 AM - 3:25 PM). |
Access to cubbies will be supervised by staff. | Students will not be allowed to go to their lockers from bell to bell (8:00 AM - 3:25 PM) unless supervised by an adult. | Devices are not to be kept in student lockers. |
Devices must be powered off. | Devices must be powered off. | All headphones must be corded; no Bluetooth listening devices allowed. |
Devices must be powered off. | ||
*Students may take their devices off-campus for extracurricular activities. | ||
Parents and guardians can be assured that the safety of our students remains our highest priority. If there is an emergency, families may continue to contact the school office, and students will have access to school telephones when needed.
We really appreciate your support as we roll out these new state guidelines. Together, we can create a space where our students and staff can truly thrive.
Questions regarding the district's communication device policy may be directed to your child's school principal or the USD 430 District Office.
HES | EMS | HHS | USD 430 District Office |
785-486-2616 | 785-548-7536 | 785-486-2151 | 785-486-2611 |