Cell Phone Policies & Procedures 

Mexico Public Schools recently revised its board policy regarding cell phones and electronic devices. The changes were made in accordance with the new Missouri law. MPS now limits cell phone and electronic device usage across the district.

All students are prohibited from displaying or using personal communications devices during the school day. This includes devices such as smartwatches, air pods, and personal laptops. 

Here are a few key elements that are part of our policy, based on the law:

• Students will not be allowed to use or access cell phones during class.
• Phones will need to be turned off and put away during the school day.
• Use of phones during lunch, passing periods, and other non-instructional time (like recess or breaks) will not be allowed, as required by state law.
• Unauthorized use of devices may result in consequences, as outlined in our student code of conduct.

Exceptions to the policy include:

• In the case of an emergency
• When authorized to use such a device for an educational purpose.
• When the district determines that the display or use is legally necessary to comply with various laws or for students with specific medical or other documented needs. 

The district is not responsible for the technological support of students' personal communication devices. Students who bring personal communication devices to school do so at their own risk. The district assumes no responsibility for lost, stolen, damaged, or misplaced devices.

How We Got Here

The Missouri General Assembly passed Senate Bill 68 last session, which includes a requirement for all public and charter schools to adopt policies that limit or restrict student access to personal electronic devices, such as cell phones, smartwatches, and earbuds, during instructional time. Governor Kehoe signed the bill into law on July 9, and the law went into effect on August 28, 2025.

The district team has followed guidance from the Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA) and legal counsel to implement a district policy meeting the legal requirements while being as thoughtful and supportive as possible for our Mexico students and families.

The "Why"

Cell phone use by adolescents is widely known to contribute to mental health issues, and they are a disruption to the learning environment. In June of 2024, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy called for warning labels on social media. He also published an advisory on social media and youth mental health.

The Research

The research is very clear on the effects social media and smartphones have on students:

Image Sources: Brain Drain, National Education Association, Smartphone Bans, Student Outcomes and Mental Health, American Psychological Association, The Anxious Generation

Board Policy

The Mexico Public Schools Board of Education officially adopted Board Policy JFCD: Student Use of Personal Communication Services on August 19, 2025 meeting. 

Questions or comments can be directed to your child’s teacher, your child’s principal, and Central Office. If you would like to send an email to communications@mexico.k12.mo.us, your questions will be directed to the appropriate personnel.