New Cell Phone for IL Schools & FSD 145

 

Updated Student Cell Phone & Electronic Device Expectations

Freeport School District 145 is updating its student cell phone and electronic device expectations for the 2026–2027 school year. These changes reflect updated requirements in Illinois and support our continued efforts to create safe, focused learning environments with fewer distractions during the school day.

High School Students: Students may bring cell phones to school; however, phones will be stored in a designated secure location within the classroom during instructional time. During the regular school day, electronic devices must remain on silent and out of sight, except during lunch and passing periods.

Elementary & Middle School Students: Cell phones must be stored in the student's locker or turned over to the school office or a staff member for safekeeping. These expectations are in effect from the first bell through the dismissal bell.

School Bus Transportation: Student safety remains our priority during transportation. If the use of an electronic device creates a safety concern or disruption on a school bus, the driver or monitor may confiscate the device for the remainder of the ride.

We recognize that cell phones are an important way for families to stay connected. These expectations are not intended to prevent students from having a phone, but to establish appropriate boundaries for when and how devices are used during the school day. Our goal is to minimize distractions, support student learning, and maintain safe school and transportation environments.