“Phone-free” does not always mean bell to bell.
Some policies cover class time only. Others also cover passing periods and lunch. A few leave those parts of the day to individual schools.
A national guide to school phone rules
How America's schools regulate student phones
As the team behind popular solitaire games, we think often about how people use their phones—including when digital play fits into the day and when it should take a back seat. To better understand how schools are drawing that line, we reviewed the phone rules in 250 public school systems. See the national pattern, compare states, or browse the rules in a specific district.
250districts
50states + D.C.
3grade bands
The most common pattern is a full-day restriction for younger students, with more flexibility in high school.
The national view
For younger students, all-day phone bans are the norm.
High school is where the policies spread out. Many districts still prohibit phones all day, while others allow some use at lunch or between periods.
all day
Three things worth knowing
Most districts restrict phones. The details change by grade.
Lunch is where high-school policies split.
In 66 of the 250 districts, the high-school rule allows phone use at lunch. Only 7 do so at the elementary level.
Some schools can go beyond the district rule.
In some systems, the central office sets a baseline, and principals decide storage, enforcement, or whether students get additional access.
State by state
Explore the rules state by state.
Choose a state to see how many students attend the districts in this guide and how common all-day high-school rules are among them.
The district directory
Browse the rules in all 250 districts.
Choose a state, jump directly to a district, or narrow the list by the shape of the policy.
NC
Alamance-Burlington SS
Some use allowed outside class
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
MiddleClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
NM
Albuquerque Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
TX
Aldine ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TX
Alief ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
UT
Alpine School District
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. Middle school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
AK
Anchorage School District
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
MD
Anne Arundel County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
MN
Anoka-Hennepin SD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
TX
Arlington ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
GA
Atlanta Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CO
Aurora Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
TX
Austin ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MD
Baltimore City PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MD
Baltimore County PS
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. Middle and high school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
ME
Bangor School Department
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
SC
Beaufort County SD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
OR
Beaverton School District
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
AR
Bentonville Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
SC
Berkeley County SD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MT
Billings Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
ND
Bismarck Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
KS
Blue Valley USD 229
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MA
Boston Public Schools
Some details vary by school
ElementarySchool-specific implementation
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
CO
Boulder Valley SD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
Brevard Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
Broward County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
NY
Buffalo Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
VT
Burlington School District
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
WV
Cabell County Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
LA
Calcasieu Parish PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CA
Capistrano Unified
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
TX
Cedar Hill ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
IA
Cedar Rapids CSD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
AZ
Chandler Unified
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
SC
Charleston County SD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NC
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
GA
Cherokee County SD (GA)
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
SC
Cherokee County SD (SC)
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CO
Cherry Creek SD
Some details vary by school
ElementarySchool-specific implementation
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
VA
Chesapeake Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
VA
Chesterfield County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
IL
Chicago Public Schools
Some details vary by school
ElementarySchool-specific implementation
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
DE
Christina School District
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
OH
Cincinnati Public Schools
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryDistrictwide timing not specified
MiddleDistrictwide timing not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
The district's published materials do not state a districtwide phone rule for elementary or middle school. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
NV
Clark County SD
Some use allowed outside class
ElementaryClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
MiddleClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
TN
Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
Clay County District Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
GA
Clayton County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolDistrictwide timing not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. The district's published materials do not state a districtwide phone rule for high school.
TX
Clear Creek ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
OH
Cleveland Metropolitan SD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CA
Clovis Unified
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. Middle and high school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
GA
Cobb County SD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
FL
Collier County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
CO
Colorado Springs D11
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
OH
Columbus City Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TX
Conroe ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CA
Corona-Norco USD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
TX
Corpus Christi ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NC
Cumberland County Schools
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. Middle and high school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
TX
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TX
Dallas ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
IA
Davenport CSD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
UT
Davis School District
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. Middle and high school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
MI
Dearborn Public Schools
Some details vary by school
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. For high school, individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
AZ
Deer Valley USD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
GA
DeKalb County SD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CO
Denver Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
IA
Des Moines Public Schools
Some details vary by school
ElementaryAll day
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Elementary students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. For middle school and high school, individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
MI
Detroit PSCD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
DC
District of Columbia Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
GA
Douglas County School System
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CO
Douglas County SD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
FL
Duval County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
LA
East Baton Rouge Parish Schools
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
TX
El Paso ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CA
Elk Grove USD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
FL
Escambia County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
IN
Evansville Vanderburgh SC
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
VA
Fairfax County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
ND
Fargo Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
KY
Fayette County PS (Lexington)
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
CA
Fontana Unified
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolDistrictwide timing not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. The district's published materials do not state a districtwide phone rule for high school.
GA
Forsyth County Schools (GA)
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
TX
Fort Bend ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
IN
Fort Wayne Community Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TX
Fort Worth ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MD
Frederick County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CA
Fresno Unified
Some use allowed outside class
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
MiddleClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
TX
Frisco ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
GA
Fulton County Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
CA
Garden Grove Unified
Some use allowed outside class
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
MiddleClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
TX
Garland ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NC
Gaston County Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
AZ
Gilbert Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
UT
Granite School District
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
SC
Greenville County SD
Some details vary by school
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. For high school, individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
NC
Guilford County Schools
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
GA
Gwinnett County PS
Some details vary by school
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. For high school, individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
TN
Hamilton County Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
IN
Hamilton Southeastern Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
VA
Hanover County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MD
Harford County Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
CT
Hartford Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
HI
Hawaii DOE (statewide)
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
VA
Henrico County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
GA
Henry County Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
Hillsborough County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
SC
Horry County Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
GA
Houston County SD
Some details vary by school
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. For high school, individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
TX
Houston ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MD
Howard County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TX
Humble ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
IL
Indian Prairie SD 204
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes. Middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
IN
Indianapolis Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NC
Iredell-Statesville Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CA
Irvine Unified
Some details vary by school
ElementarySchool-specific implementation
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
CO
Jeffco Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
KY
Jefferson County PS (Louisville)
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
LA
Jefferson Parish PSS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NJ
Jersey City PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NC
Johnston County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
UT
Jordan School District
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. Middle and high school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
KS
Kansas City Kansas PS (USD 500)
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MO
Kansas City Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TX
Katy ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
WA
Kent School District
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. Middle and high school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
TX
Killeen ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TX
Klein ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TN
Knox County Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
LA
Lafayette Parish SS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
Lake County Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
TX
Lamar Consolidated ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TX
Leander ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
Leon County Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
TX
Lewisville ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
SC
Lexington County SD One
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NE
Lincoln Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
CA
Long Beach Unified
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
CA
Los Angeles USD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
VA
Loudoun County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
WI
Madison Metropolitan SD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
FL
Manatee County SD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
NH
Manchester School District
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
Marion County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
TN
Memphis-Shelby County Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
AZ
Mesa Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
TX
Mesquite ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TN
Metro Nashville PS
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes. Middle and high school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
FL
Miami-Dade County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
WI
Milwaukee Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MN
Minneapolis Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
AL
Mobile County Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MD
Montgomery County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CA
Moreno Valley USD
Some details vary by school
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. For high school, individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
GA
Muscogee County SD
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
ID
Nampa School District
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleDistrictwide timing not specified
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. The district's published materials do not state a districtwide phone rule for middle school. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
IL
Naperville CUSD 203
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
WY
Natrona County SD (Casper)
Some details vary by school
ElementarySchool-specific implementation
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
UT
Nebo School District
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
NC
New Hanover County Schools
Some details vary by school
ElementarySchool-specific implementation
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
CT
New Haven Public Schools
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryDistrictwide timing not specified
MiddleDistrictwide timing not specified
High schoolDistrictwide timing not specified
The district's published materials do not state a districtwide phone rule for any grade level.
NY
New York City DOE
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NJ
Newark Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
VA
Newport News PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
GA
Newton County School System
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolDistrictwide timing not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. The district's published materials do not state a districtwide phone rule for high school.
VA
Norfolk Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TX
North East ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MO
North Kansas City Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TX
Northside ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
OK
Oklahoma City PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
KS
Olathe Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NE
Omaha Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NC
Onslow County Schools
Some use allowed outside class
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
MiddleClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
FL
Orange County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
Osceola County SD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MN
Osseo Area Schools ISD 279
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
FL
Palm Beach County SD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
TX
Pasadena ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
Pasco County Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
GA
Paulding County SD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
AZ
Peoria Unified
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
TX
Pflugerville ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
Pinellas County Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
PA
Pittsburgh Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TX
Plano ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MI
Plymouth-Canton CS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
FL
Polk County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
OR
Portland Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CO
Poudre School District
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
MD
Prince George's County PS
Some details vary by school
ElementarySchool-specific implementation
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
VA
Prince William County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
RI
Providence Public School District
Some details vary by school
ElementaryAll day
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Elementary students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. For middle school and high school, individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
MS
Rankin County School District
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
SC
Richland County SD Two
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CA
Riverside USD
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
VA
Roanoke County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NY
Rochester City SD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
IL
Rockford Public Schools (RPS 205)
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
MN
Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan ISD 196
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
TX
Round Rock ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
ME
RSU 35 / MSAD #35
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TN
Rutherford County Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CA
Sacramento City USD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MN
Saint Paul Public Schools
Some details vary by school
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. For high school, individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
OR
Salem-Keizer Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
UT
Salt Lake City SD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
TX
San Antonio ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CA
San Bernardino City USD
Some details vary by school
ElementarySchool-specific implementation
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
CA
San Diego Unified SD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
CA
San Francisco USD
Some use allowed outside class
ElementaryClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
MiddleClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
CA
San Juan Unified
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
CA
Santa Ana Unified
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
FL
Sarasota County Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
GA
Savannah-Chatham County PSS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
School District of Lee County
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
PA
School District of Philadelphia
Some details vary by school
ElementarySchool-specific implementation
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
IL
School District U-46 (Elgin)
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
AZ
Scottsdale Unified
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
WA
Seattle Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
FL
Seminole County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
SD
Sioux Falls School District
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
TX
Socorro ISD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
IN
South Bend CSC
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
SC
Spartanburg County SD 7
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
WA
Spokane Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
VA
Spotsylvania County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MA
Springfield Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
St. Johns County SD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
FL
St. Lucie Public Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
LA
St. Tammany Parish PS
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
CO
St. Vrain Valley Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
VA
Stafford County PS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
CA
Stockton Unified
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
WA
Tacoma Public Schools
Some details vary by school
ElementarySchool-specific implementation
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
AZ
Tucson USD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
OK
Tulsa Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
NC
Union County PS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing + lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch and between classes, but not during class.
TX
United ISD
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
MI
Utica Community Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
VA
Virginia Beach CPS
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
FL
Volusia County Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
NC
Wake County PSS
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
NV
Washoe County SD
Some details vary by school
ElementarySchool-specific implementation
MiddleSchool-specific implementation
High schoolSchool-specific implementation
Individual schools or principals set some of the day-to-day phone rules.
UT
Weber School District
Rules vary by grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. Middle and high school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
ID
West Ada School District
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
KS
Wichita Public Schools
All day at every grade
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolAll day
Students must keep phones put away throughout the school day.
TN
Williamson County Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
NC
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
MA
Worcester Public Schools
Outside-class timing is not fully stated
ElementaryClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
MiddleClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
High schoolClass prohibited; passing/lunch not specified
Students may not use phones during class. The published rule does not state whether they may use them at lunch or between classes.
TX
Ysleta ISD
Stricter for younger students
ElementaryAll day
MiddleAll day
High schoolClass + passing prohibited; lunch allowed
Elementary and middle school students must keep phones put away throughout the school day. High school students may use phones at lunch, but not during class or between classes.
No districts match both filters.
Choose a different state or policy approach.
How we did this
How the districts were chosen and compared
The guide combines a large-district national core with broader geographic coverage, then compares the same parts of the school day in every place.
Chose 250 public school systems.
The sample starts with 150 large, comparable systems and adds 100 districts to broaden geographic and size coverage. Every state and Washington, D.C. is represented.
Read the current rule.
We used district, school-board, or state materials wherever they clearly stated the rule. A district page notes when the public record leaves part of the day unresolved.
Compare the same parts of the day.
Elementary, middle, and high-school rules are separated, with class time, passing periods, and lunch treated distinctly.
Show where local decisions remain.
When principals or individual schools control part of the policy, the district page explains what can vary.
Last checkedSeptember 9, 2026
Policies change. Each district page links to the source reviewed for this edition.
The rule
What may vary
Open source ↗