Families and students should know about important changes this school year as new state laws take effect. The biggest updates focus on cell phone use at school and providing additional support for students struggling in math.
Cell Phones: New "Bell-to-Bell" Restrictions
Beginning this school year, every Indiana public school and charter school must have a wireless device policy that limits students' use of personal electronic devices throughout the entire school day—including lunch and passing periods. This change is required by SEA 78 (2026).
Schools must choose one of two options:
- No Device Policy: Students may not bring personal wireless devices to school.
- Storage Policy: Students may bring devices, but they must remain powered off, stored away, and inaccessible during the school day.
The law applies to cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, laptops, gaming devices, and other internet-connected personal devices. Remember to check your school district’s new policy and discuss it with your student prior to the start of the school year.
Exceptions—students may still use a wireless device if it is:
- Required by their Individualized Education Program (IEP)
- Included in their Section 504 Plan
- Needed to manage a documented medical condition
Parents will also have more control over school-issued devices used at home, including options to increase internet filtering, block websites, and limit screen time.
Increased Support for Students Struggling in Math
New laws are also designed to improve math achievement. Schools must notify parents within 15 days if a student is identified as being at risk of not meeting grade-level math standards, per SEA 239 (2026).
Additionally, students in kindergarten through eighth grade who need extra help must receive additional math intervention through a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), which this year must be provided through Tier II and/or Tier III supplemental instruction.
What This Means for Families
Families should expect information from their child's school explaining its new wireless device policy before or at the start of the school year. Parents of students who need additional math support should also expect earlier communication and more targeted interventions to help their children succeed.
If you have questions about these changes and how they apply to your child, please contact us.
The statements contained herein are provided for informational purposes, and are not to be considered legal advice.
