Cell Phone Use Policy
In accordance with the passage of Missouri Senate Bill 68, Liberty Public Schools will join all Missouri school districts and will be cell phone free beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. Student cell phones and personal devices, including smartwatches, laptops, and tablets, must be turned off and put away during the school day at all K-12 schools.
Please know that we understand that this will be something that will require us all to adjust to, and our entire team will be committed to working with both students and families as we adjust to these changes set forth by the state. Working together, we can help our students build healthier and more productive technology habits.
LPS Cell Phone Free Plan 2025-2026
Missouri law (Senate Bill 68) requires all school districts to adopt a policy restricting students’ use of electronic personal communication devices during the school day.
By shifting to a cell phone free environment, Liberty students can fully engage in learning and meaningful social connections.
When Are Devices NOT Allowed?
- Student devices must be silenced/turned off and out of sight from the first bell to the final dismissal bell, including:
- During class/flex time/assemblies
- During lunch
- During restroom breaks
- Between classes/passing periods
What is Considered a "Device"?
Any portable device used to send, receive, store, or view communication, information, or images, including:
- Cell phones
- Smartwatches
- Gaming devices
- Personal laptops and tablets
Where Should Devices Be Stored?
Devices should be powered off/silenced and stored securely during the school day. Storage options include zipped inside student backpacks or lockers when available.
How Will Parents Be Able to Reach Students During the School Day?
We understand how important it is for families to stay connected. If you need to reach your student during the school day, you can call your school’s main office. Our staff will ensure your message is delivered promptly or will bring your student to the office if needed. In the event of an emergency, students will always have access to communication through staff and the school office. You can also email your student through their LPS school email account.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes. Devices may be used:
- When required by a student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan. Reach out to your case manager, counselor, or principal for support.
- In a documented medical emergency
- Before the school day begins and after the school day ends
- When authorized by a teacher or administrator for an approved educational purpose. Course syllabi will share approved purposes for cell phone usage.
- Students in grades 9-12 will use digital IDs when they enter/exit the building during school hours.
What Happens if a Student fails to Comply with our Cell-Phone Free plan?
We understand that adjusting to new expectations takes time. Per Board Policy JG-R1, consequences may include: confiscation, principal/student conference, detention, in-school suspension, or out-of-school suspension, Our goal is to support students in making responsible choices.
Where Can I Find the Full Policy?
Our policy is currently being updated. It will be available on our website here: https://www.lps53.org/our-district/board-of-education
Have questions?
Contact your school administration office directly by phone or connect with us via Let’s Talk. An FAQ is available here.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What if I need to reach my child during the school day?
- How will my child reach me if there is an emergency at school?
- How can parents support these expectations?
- What if my child relies on a personal device for health reasons?
- Can students use their personal devices for educational purposes?
- What about personal smartwatches, iPads, tablets or laptops?