District news
State cell phone ban now applies "bell to bell"
What happened
A new Kansas law bans student cell phones in schools. Under it, the elementary handbook says phones, smart watches and other devices must be kept in a secured place from bell to bell. In July the board approved 2026-27 handbooks and a letter to parents about the phone ban and a ban on staff-student direct social media messages.
Why it matters to families
Students in every school can no longer use phones during the school day, which changes daily routines for kids and how parents reach them.
The evidence
April 13, 2026 minutes (cell phone ban law discussed); July 13, 2026 minutes (parent letter; handbooks approved 6-0); EES Student Handbook 2026-27, Cell Phones/Smart Watches section.
The source
July 13, 2026 regular meeting minutesSee the full record for Norton Community Schools USD 211.
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