Lewis County C-1 is committed to ensuring each student is successful in school, life, and beyond. This includes helping them develop essential skills to learn how to leverage technology while setting boundaries that support focus, productivity, and well-being. Highland Schools will be cell phone-free starting with the 25-26 school year, as required under a new Missouri law.
Cell phones and personal communications devices, including smartwatches, laptops, and tablets, must be turned off and put away during the school day unless it is being used for an educational purpose and/or permission is specifically granted by a teacher or administrator. Previously, Highland Schools had adopted stricter cell phone restrictions which limited student use at the High School level to only be allowed during passing time and at lunch; however, a new Missouri law now requires a complete ban on the use of cell phones and personal devices during the entire school day.
The Lewis County C-1 Board of Education has already approved a new policy to align with the state law. You can read more about our policy and the state law here.
As with any policy, students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action and may have their devices confiscated. Learn more about the consequences below.
We recognize that our students will be adjusting to these new expectations in the first days of school. You can support them by having conversations now about what will be expected. If we work together, we can help our students build healthier and more productive technology habits.
Cell phone-free schools can enhance student focus, engagement in learning, and overall mental well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions -Click on this link to see answers to commonly asked questions like:
1. What if I need to reach my child during the school day?
2. How will my child reach me if there is an emergency at school?
3. How can parents support these expectations?
4. What are the consequences for students if they do not comply with the policy and state law?
5. What if my child relies on a personal device for health reasons?
6. Can students use their personal devices for educational purposes?
7. What about personal smartwatches, iPads, tablets or laptops?