Bell to Bell, No Cell - New State Law 2025-2026

A new state law, Arkansas Act 122 of 2025, also known as the "Bell to Bell, No Cell Act," will go into effect for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. This legislation prohibits the use of personal electronic devices by students during the entire school day. Our school board adopted policy 4.47 to comply with this legislative action.

What does this mean for your child?

Beginning on the first day of school, students will not be permitted to use personal electronic devices from the first bell to the last. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Cell phones
• Smartwatches
• Wireless earbuds/headphones (e.g., AirPods)
• Digital media players
• Portable game consoles
• Tablets, Kindles, or laptops (unless school-issued)
• Digital video or audio recorders (unless school-issued)
• Any other Bluetooth-connected wearable or device capable of sending, receiving, storing, or displaying digital content.

If students bring these devices to school, they will be expected to keep them turned off or on silent mode and stored out of sight (e.g., in a backpack) for the duration of the school day, to include between classes, lunch, and restroom breaks. Students should not use, hold, or check their device unless covered by an exception.

What are the exceptions?

• Health-related needs as documented by an IEP/504/Health Plan
• Emergencies as defined by policy 4.47
• School-issued devices used for instructional purposes
• Concurrent or college-level classes requiring secure device access
  
  

How can you help?

We encourage you to discuss this new law and our policy with your student and help them understand the expectations for the upcoming school year. Your support in preparing them for this change is invaluable in ensuring a smooth transition and a positive learning experience for everyone.

If you have any questions or require more information, please do not hesitate to contact your child's school directly or the district office.

Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting a productive, respectful, and safe learning environment for all our students.