Governor ceremonially signs new law sponsored by Teshka reducing cell phone use in schools

Governor Braun recently ceremonially signed into law a bill sponsored by State Representative Jake Teshka (R-North Liberty) to prohibit student use of personal wireless communication devices during school hours.

Indiana schools and educators are working on how to reduce classroom distractions from student cellphones and other wireless devices. Access to technology devices has been linked to disruptions, off-task behavior, and increased difficulty maintaining student attention. However, at the same time, access to technology for learning, safety, and individual needs is still important.

To address these challenges, Senate Enrolled Act 78 creates a standard for device use during the school day. It requires each school corporation and charter school to adopt a policy that, with limited exceptions, prohibits student use of personal wireless devices during the school day and mandates either a no-device or structured storage approach.

"Technology is important and here to stay, but when it comes to Hoosier students in the classrooms, we need to make sure that students are focused and learning without distractions," said Teshka, a member of the House Education Committee. "This new law will support educators and students as we work to improve students' focus and academic engagement."

SEA 78 maintains important exceptions for students who need devices for an Individualized Education Plan or Section 504 plan, medical conditions, emergencies, or language translation, and permits limited use of unobtrusive audio-only recording for notetaking under strict conditions.

In addition, the Indiana Department of Education is directed to provide model policies and implementation guidance, and schools are granted immunity from civil liability for good-faith enforcement, excluding cases of gross negligence or misconduct.

To learn more about SEA 78, click here.