No Phones – Just Moments: What Missouri Senate Bill 68 Means for Oak Grove Schools
No Phones – Just Moments: What Missouri Senate Bill 68 Means for Oak Grove Schools
Starting with the 2025–2026 school year, a new Missouri law—Senate Bill 68 (SB 68)—goes into effect across all K–12 public schools. The law bans student use of personal electronic communication devices during the school day.
For Oak Grove families, this won’t feel like a big change—we’ve already had a no-cellphone policy in place for years. Still, this new law makes it official across the state, and it’s worth reviewing what it means for students, parents, and staff.
🔒 What the Law Says
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Ban on Devices: Students cannot use or display personal devices (cell phones, smartwatches with messaging/call features, tablets, AirPods, Bluetooth headphones, etc.) during the school day.
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Definition: Any portable device used to initiate, receive, store, or view communication, information, images, or data electronically.
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When It Applies: From the first bell to dismissal—covering class time, lunch, breaks, passing periods, and study hall.
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School-Provided Technology: Students will still receive a district-issued Google Chromebook for academic use.
🏫 What Districts Must Do
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Written Policy: Each school district must adopt a formal policy prohibiting student use of these devices.
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Enforcement Plan: The policy must outline how the rule will be communicated and enforced.
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Consistency Across the State: No exceptions for “phone zones” or “use at lunch”—it’s an all-day restriction.
At Oak Grove, this is nothing new. We’ve already led the way with our “no phones” expectations.
⚖️ Why This Matters
Missouri lawmakers cited several reasons for this statewide law:
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📚 Less distraction from learning
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🛡️ Reduced cyberbullying and social media drama during the school day
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💬 Improved mental health by limiting constant device use
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🤝 More face-to-face connections between students and staff
In short, it’s about building a better school culture—focused on learning, relationships, and creating memories together.
📱 Parent & Community FAQ
1. What is Senate Bill 68?
A Missouri law banning personal electronic device use in all public K–12 schools beginning with the 2025–2026 school year.
2. What devices are included?
Cell phones, smartwatches with messaging/call features, tablets/iPads, AirPods/Bluetooth headphones, and other personal electronic communication tools.
3. When can students use their devices?
Not during the school day. Devices must be powered off and stored away from the first bell until dismissal.
4. Why was this law passed?
To reduce distractions, prevent cyberbullying, protect mental health, and encourage face-to-face interaction.
5. How do I reach my child during the school day?
Call the school office. Staff will deliver your message or arrange for your child to call you from a school phone.
6. Can students use phones in emergencies?
Staff will make sure students can contact families in emergencies. Students should not use personal devices unless directed by staff.
7. How will this be enforced?
Each district has a policy. At Oak Grove, violations will follow a progressive discipline process. Devices should be stored in a locker, backpack, or another secure spot.
8. Are there exceptions?
Yes. Students with documented medical needs or IEP/504 plans that require device use will be allowed accommodations.
9. Does this apply to teachers and staff?
No. Staff may continue to use devices for professional and instructional purposes.
10. How can families support this?
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Talk with your child about the new law and why it exists
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Encourage leaving devices at home or powering them off in their backpack
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Reinforce that school is for learning, relationships, and safety
Here at Oak Grove, we’ve always believed in “No Phones – Just Moments.” With SB 68 now a state law, every Missouri student will have the chance to unplug and focus on what really matters—learning, friendships, and memories that last a lifetime.
Let’s make 2025–2026 the best year yet by building a school environment free from distractions and full of connection.
📘 For more details, check your student handbook for building-specific policies