Newton County Schools to Implement Distraction-Free Learning Policy for Pre-K Through 8th Grade Beginning August 3
When students return to classrooms on Monday, August 3, Newton County Schools will implement its Distraction-Free Learning Policy for all students in grades Pre-K through 8, in accordance with Georgia's Distraction-Free Education Act (House Bill 340) and Board Policy JCDAF.
The policy is designed to reduce classroom distractions, increase student engagement, and create learning environments where students can remain focused on instruction throughout the school day.
Under the policy, students in grades Pre-K through 8 will not be permitted to access or use personal electronic devices while on school premises during the school day. Personal electronic devices—including cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, headphones or AirPods, gaming devices, smart glasses, and other devices capable of communication, internet access, messaging, gaming, recording, or data transmission—must remain powered off or silenced and kept out of sight from the beginning of the school day until dismissal. This expectation applies during instructional time as well as class changes, lunch, recess, breaks, assemblies, and all other school-related activities occurring during the school day.
"Our classrooms should be places where students are fully engaged in learning, collaborating with their peers, and building meaningful relationships with their teachers," said Dr. Duke Bradley III, Superintendent of Newton County Schools. "By minimizing distractions from personal electronic devices, we are creating an environment that allows students to focus on what matters most—their education."
The Distraction-Free Learning Policy supports the district's commitment to maximizing instructional time and creating classroom environments where students can remain focused, engaged, and ready to learn throughout the school day. While personal electronic devices will not be permitted for student use during the school day, Newton County Schools will continue providing students with district-issued devices and digital learning tools that support classroom instruction.
Students who do not comply with the policy will be subject to progressive consequences as outlined in the Newton County Schools Student Code of Conduct.
Parents and guardians who need to communicate with their child during the school day are encouraged to contact their child's school directly. Likewise, students who need to contact a parent or guardian may do so through the school's front office, where staff will assist with placing calls as needed. During emergencies, Newton County Schools will communicate with families through the district's official communication channels.
The district also reminds families that Newton County Schools is not responsible for the loss, theft, or damage of any personal electronic device brought to school.
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