ALLEN COUNTY, Ind. (WANE) – Indiana schools are now enforcing stricter cellphone policies under a new statewide law aimed at reducing classroom distractions and improving student focus. Many of the districts in Allen County already started this transition years ago, and this new statewide law will not bring any major changes.
Senate Enrolled Act 78 requires Indiana schools to enforce “bell-to-bell” restrictions on all personal electronic devices during the school day. It applies to cellphones, smartwatches, earbuds and gaming devices.
Fort Wayne Community Schools (FWCS) has been enforcing a no-cellphone policy. Two years ago, thanks to a safety referendum, the district was able to purchase Yondr phone pouches for all primary schools. These keep students’ phones stored and locked away for the day. Recently, FWCS was able to purchase pouches for all secondary schools as well…