Cell Phone Policy
In accordance with the newly passed state legislation, “Bell to Bell, No Cell,” Newman Middle School will implement a cell phone-free environment during school hours beginning with the 2025-2026 academic year. This includes all smart communication devices, such as smartwatches, AirPods, and similar technology. From the time students enter the building until 2:50 pm, all such devices must remain out of sight in backpacks and unused. This policy applies throughout the school day, including during athletics, bus transportation from the high school to Newman for athletics and agriscience, lunch and other non-instructional times.
Policy overview:
Students who bring a cell phone or smart device to school must keep it stored in their backpack or locker–not in their pockets or on their person.
If a student chooses to store the device in their locker, they must provide their own lock and give the code or a key to the office.
Devices are not permitted in classrooms, hallways, the cafeteria/lunch area, or on the buses during school hours.
Devices may not be carried or used until the student has exited the building at the end of the school day.
Students have the option to check-in their cell phone/prohibited device to the office when they get to school each day if they are worried about the temptation to use their cell phone/prohibited device.
NOTE: If your student has a chronic medical condition that may require access to a cell phone or smartwatch, please contact the school to schedule a meeting. A case-specific plan and appropriate use contract will be developed in collaboration with school administration.
We appreciate your support and cooperation as we work to maintain a focused, distraction-free learning environment for our students.