New Cell Phone Rules for the 2025–2026 School Year

Lakota Local School announces changes to its personal communication device policy for the start of the 2025-2026 school year. The changes were made in response to Ohio's new legislation for schools surrounding cell phones and other personal communication devices. Below is the communication to families from Superintendent Ashley Whitely.

As we start the new school year, we want to thank our families, students and staff for sharing their thoughts about cell phone use in our schools last year. We listened carefully with the intent to incorporate your feedback into an updated cell phone policy. However, a new Ohio law now requires us to follow specific rules about personal communication devices (PCDs), like cell phones and smart watches. The Lakota Board of Education approved this new policy at its August 5 meeting.

Here is what our families and students need to know about PCDs in Lakota Local Schools starting with the 2025-2026 school year:

General Restrictions

• Students are allowed to have their PCD in their possession while on school property. However, students are not allowed to use their PCD during the instructional day, which is class time and in-school events.
• While smart watches may be worn by students, cell phones should be stored out of sight, such as in a student’s locker, backpack or purse during instructional time. 
  • In grades 7-12, each classroom will have designated storage units for students to place their phones upon entering; students are strongly encouraged to utilize these.
• The “instructional day” is time spent in the classroom with a teacher, including study halls. This does not include times such as lunch or passing time in the hallways.
• Cell phones must be set to silent mode during instructional time and while in students’ possession. 
• In the event of a school emergency, students may be able to use their cell phones if allowed by their teacher or administrator as long as it does not interfere with emergency management.
• Students will not be allowed to use their cell phones if they forget or do not charge their Chromebook. Schools will be equipped with additional loaner devices.

General Allowances

Students may only use a PCD:

• Between classes;
• During the student’s lunch period; 
• During after-school activities; and 
• While riding in a school vehicle, as long as it doesn’t create a distraction or violate bus rules.

Privacy & Safety

• Cell phones may not be used in locker rooms, restrooms or any area where privacy is expected.
• Students are prohibited from recording or transmitting audio, video or images of others without consent.
• Covert recording devices (including live-listening technology) are not allowed without written approval from the Superintendent.

Bullying & Misuse

• Using a cell phone to bully, harass or violate the Student Code of Conduct is strictly prohibited.

Violation of the New PCD Policy

Should students violate the new policy, discipline will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. This includes:

• Verbal Warning
• Parent Communication via ParentSquare
• Disciplinary action
• Parent Communication

We appreciate your partnership as we implement this updated policy in alignment with Ohio law. Please expect additional details from your building administrator soon. This new policy will take effect on the first day of school, so we encourage families to review the changes together and talk with your student about what to expect. 

Clear communication will help ensure a smooth start to the year for everyone. We appreciate your partnership in this matter and are excited for the start of the new school year.

Sincerely,

Ashley Whitely, Ed.D.
Superintendent