Beginning this fall, Arkansas City Public Schools will implement a bell-to-bell cell phone policy for students. Under the new policy, students will be required to store their phones out of sight during the school day.
This new policy follows recommendations from the Kansas State Department of Education’s 2024 Blue Ribbon Task Force on Student Screen Time.
The task force encouraged schools to adopt “bell-to-bell” phone limits, meaning students keep their devices put away throughout the entire school day. Their report found that too much screen time can make it harder for students to focus, sleep well, connect with others, and feel calm, USD 470 officials said in a media release Wednesday.
“This is about creating the best environment for learning,” said Superintendent Dr. Ron Ballard. “By removing a major source of distraction, we’re helping students build habits that will benefit them academically, mentally, and socially.”
Although the Board of Education approved the policy on May 12, specific implementation procedures are still being finalized. Options under consideration include requiring students to store phones and other personal electronic devices, such as smartwatches and headphones, in lockers or secure pouches.
Once finalized, the district will work with staff, students, and families to support a smooth rollout. Expectations will be shared during back-to-school events and through handbooks, newsletters, and other school communication platforms.
“We hope that limiting phone use in schools will help our students focus, experience less stress, and feel more connected—not just to their learning, but to one another,” said Ballard. “It’s an opportunity to reset our routines and create a space where students can succeed.”
