New Cell Phone Policy

Earlier this year, Parkway announced stricter cell phone restrictions for the 2025-2026 school year based on input from teachers and families.

However, a new Missouri law now requires a complete ban on the use of cell phones and personal electronic devices during the school day.

The new law prohibits students from using cell phones and personal electronic devices from the first to the last bell, including lunch and passing periods.

Our Board of Education adopted a new policy that aligns with this new state law. You can read more about our policy and the state law here:

• Parkway Board Policy: Cell Phone/Electronic Personal Communication Device Usage

• Missouri Senate Bill 68 (Section 162.207)

As with any policy, students will be subject to disciplinary action and may have their devices confiscated if they violate the policy. Learn more about the consequences below.

We recognize that our students will be adjusting to these new expectations in the first days of school. You can support them by having conversations now about what will be expected. If we work together, we can help our students build healthier and more productive technology habits.

Students may use their cell phones or personal devices if:

• There is an emergency at school. Emergencies are defined as a serious, unexpected, and dangerous situation that requires immediate action, including, but not limited to, an immediate safety threat to the school, fire, tornado, earthquake, an evacuation of school grounds, or a medical emergency.

• Health-related purposes, such as monitoring a medical device.

• A specific educational purpose as approved or directed by faculty or staff.

Electronic personal communication devices are defined by the law and Parkway policy as any portable device used to initiate, receive, store, or view communication, information, images, or data electronically, and include, but are not limited to, cell phones, tablets, and smartwatches.

• Students are not allowed to use personal technology devices at school, including smartwatches, laptops, iPads and tablets.

• Students are expected to use their Parkway Chromebook at school.

Your school will share more information as we approach the start of the school year and during the first weeks of school to ensure students have a clear understanding of what is expected.

You can read more about the disciplinary consequences using the link below. Consequences can include confiscation of the device.

Although the state law is more restrictive than we had planned, we support cell phone-free classrooms to enhance student focus and engagement.

Parkway is committed to ensuring each student is successful in school, life, and beyond. This includes helping them develop essential skills to learn how to leverage technology while setting boundaries that support focus, productivity, and well-being.

We will monitor our policy and plans, and work with teachers to make any necessary adjustments or improvements.

We appreciate your support.