Richland One Board approves new state-required policy on student use of personal electronic devices at school

Starting January 1, 2025, Richland One students and their peers in other school districts across the state will not be able to use their cell phones or other personal electronic devices during the school day.

At the December 10 Richland One Board of School Commissioners meeting, the Board gave final approval to Policy JICJ – Prohibition of Personal Electronic Devices During the School Day. The policy will be in effect when Richland One students return to school from Winter Break on Tuesday, January 7.

A state budget proviso (Proviso 1.103) requires all South Carolina school districts to implement a model policy adopted by the State Board of Education that prohibits access to personal electronic communication devices by students during the school day. Districts must implement the policy to receive state funds allocated for State Aid to Classrooms.

Statewide implementation of the Free to Focus SC policy is mandated by the South Carolina Department of Education. The Free to Focus SC initiative aims “to create a phone-free school environment that fosters a positive learning experience free from electronic distractions.”

“Not being able to use their electronic devices during the school day will be a culture change for students, but the intention behind the policy is to help ensure that their attention is focused on what their teachers are teaching instead of texting, playing games or checking out the latest TikTok video,” said Richland One Superintendent Dr. Craig Witherspoon.

Under the policy, students will be prohibited from using their cell phones or other personal electronic devices, such as smart watches, tablets, AirPods and gaming devices, during the school day – from the start of the school day until dismissal – unless authorized for classroom use. Students must store their devices in their lockers, backpacks/bookbags or otherwise as directed by their schools.

A parent or guardian who has an emergency and needs to contact their child during the school day should call the main number of their child’s school.

Students will be able to use their personal electronic devices on school buses, on field trips and at athletics events. They cannot use them in the cafeteria or in the hallways between classes.

If students do not abide by the policy, they will face progressive disciplinary consequences as outlined in the district’s Student Code of Conduct.

For more information about the new policy, including a link to the policy, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and a student video, go to www.RichlandOne.org/FreetoFocus.