Memphis, August 11, 2025
News Summary
The Memphis-Shelby County Schools board has approved a policy mandating that students keep cell phones and similar devices turned off during school hours. Effective for the upcoming school year, the policy aligns with a statewide ban by Tennessee lawmakers aimed at reducing distractions in classrooms. Devices must be stored away at designated locations, with initial infractions resulting in verbal warnings. Exceptions include teacher-approved use for educational purposes or health monitoring. The board emphasizes the importance of a focused educational environment.
MemphisโThe Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) board has unanimously approved a new cell phone policy that will come into effect for the upcoming school year. The decision, made during a meeting on July 29, 2025, mandates that students must keep their personal wireless communication devices, including cell phones, powered off and stored out of sight during school hours. The policy aligns with a statewide ban enacted by Tennessee lawmakers in March 2025, which prohibits the use of cell phones, laptops, smartwatches, and similar devices in schools.
This new policy specifies that students can store their devices in designated locations, such as secured pouches provided by the school, purses, backpacks, book bags, lockers, or vehicles. If students are found using their devices during school hours, staff members may confiscate the devices. Consequences will increase for repeated offenses; initial infractions will result in a verbal warning, and devices may be returned at the end of the school day.
Parents were notified of the upcoming policy change through an automated message sent by MSCS in the past week, reinforcing the new rules aimed at promoting a focused and distraction-free environment for all students. Schools will have the responsibility of enforcing the policy consistently, including all associated administrative rules and regulations.
While the policy is strict, it does allow for certain exceptions. Students can use their devices during the school day if they receive prior approval from teachers for educational purposes or for health monitoring, particularly for those with disabilities.
Key Features of the New Cell Phone Policy
- Approval Date: July 29, 2025
- Policy Type: Ban on personal wireless communication devices during school hours
- Prohibited Items: Cell phones, laptops, smartwatches
- Storage Options: School-provided pouches, purses, backpacks, lockers, vehicles
- Consequences: Confiscation of devices, escalating penalties for repeated offenses
- Exceptions: Teacher-approved usage for educational reasons or health-related needs
Background of the Policy
The adoption of the new policy comes as part of broader efforts by Tennessee lawmakers to regulate technology use in educational settings, aiming to reduce distractions and focus on learning. The decision by MSCS reflects a growing trend where schools across the country are increasingly implementing stricter policies regarding technology use to facilitate an environment conducive to education.
Since the transition to online education due to the COVID-19 pandemic, schools have been grappling with the balance between utilizing technology for educational purposes and limiting its disruptive potential during in-person classes. The MSCS’s decision aims to address these concerns directly by consolidating regulations at a district level that correspond with state initiatives.
Looking Ahead
As the new policy takes effect, MSCS will monitor its implementation closely and make adjustments as needed based on feedback from students, parents, and faculty. The board is committed to fostering an educational atmosphere where learning and student engagement can flourish, free from the distractions of personal devices.
FAQ Section
What is the new cell phone policy for Memphis-Shelby County Schools?
The new policy requires students to keep personal wireless communication devices turned off and stored out of sight during school hours.
What devices does the policy cover?
The policy covers cell phones, laptops, smartwatches, and other personal communication devices.
Where can students store their devices during school?
Students can store their devices in secured school-provided pouches, purses, backpacks, lockers, or vehicles.
What happens if a student is caught using their device at school?
If caught using their device, the device may be confiscated, and consequences will escalate with repeated offenses, starting with a verbal warning.
Are there exceptions to the policy?
Yes, devices may be used if teachers provide prior approval for educational purposes or if needed for health monitoring for students with disabilities.
Chart on Key Features of the MSCS Cell Phone Policy
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of Policy | Ban on personal wireless communication devices |
| Approved Date | July 29, 2025 |
| Storage Options | Secured pouches, purses, backpacks, lockers, vehicles |
| Consequences | Confiscation, verbal warning, escalating penalties |
| Exceptions | Teacher-approved usage for educational or health reasons |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
West Memphis Schools Implement New Changes for Students
MSCS Begins New School Year with Changes and Challenges
Memphis Schools Adopt New Cellphone Policy
Memphis Schools Implement Cell Phone Ban for Students
Memphis-Shelby County Schools Undergo Major Restructuring
Memphis Board Denies Charter School Applications Under New Law
Memphis Schools To Enforce New Wireless Device Policy
Tennessee Schools Enact New Legislation for Students
Memphis Hosts Successful Back-to-School Giveaways
Memphis School Board Considers New Cellphone Policy
Additional Resources
- WREG: Memphis Schools Discuss Cell Phone Ban Policy
- Wikipedia: Cell Phone Policy in Education
- Commercial Appeal: Memphis Schools Cell Phone Policy
- Google Search: Cell Phone Policy in Schools
- WREG: MSCS to Ban Smart Devices in School
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Smartphone
- Fox 13: MSCS Board Bans Smart Devices
- Google News: Memphis Cell Phone Ban
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
