District news
Phones and smartwatches now prohibited from bell to bell, including lunch
What happened
On June 15, 2026 the board updated policy JFCM. Students were 'restricted' from using phones from the first bell to dismissal; now they are 'prohibited' from using phones and smart devices, including smartwatches and tablets. Lunch and time between classes count. Separate rules for elementary, middle and high school say how phones must be stored.
Why it matters to families
This changes students' whole school day, including lunch. Students with an IEP, 504, health or English learner plan that allows a device are exempt, and no student can be suspended or expelled only for breaking the phone rule.
The evidence
The June 15, 2026 policy packet shows the JFCM redline striking 'restricted' and inserting 'prohibited from using cell phones and smart devices' bell to bell. The approved June 15 minutes record the board approving the policies for first and second reading.
The source
June 15, 2026 policies packet (JFCM Student Cell Phone and Smart Device Possession and Use)See the full record for Clarke County Public Schools.
Get alerts like this for Clarke County Public Schools
We read every agenda, packet, and set of minutes, and write up the decisions that affect families — each one linked to the document it came from, the moment it's public.
Get personalized alerts