School Cell Phone Changes
Dear USD 103 Families,
Cheylin Public Schools is sharing an important update regarding student use of personal electronic devices beginning in August 2026.
Kansas enacted legislation that requires all Kansas schools to adopt policies and procedures prohibiting student access to personal electronic devices during the school day. Starting this academic year, personal electronic devices-including cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, and wireless earbuds-must be powered off and securely stored away from the student during instructional time, recess, lunch, and passing periods. This expectation will apply to all students.
USD 103 administration is currently developing procedures that align with these new requirements. Families should plan for student devices to be inaccessible during the school day. We understand that parents and guardians may need to reach their children during the school day. Students will continue to have access to school phones.
In addition, the legislation requires school districts to create procedures regarding device storage, enforcement, disciplinary consequences and accommodations for students who require devices for medical purposes or as part of an IEP or Section 504 Plan. If your child has accommodations related to device use, your building principal will communicate with you regarding these expectations and procedures.
There are also new guidelines outlining how district employees can communicate digitally with students. All two-way messaging between staff and students must now occur through
board-approved, monitored communication systems, such as ParentSquare.
We understand that navigating this change requires adjustment. We are confident it will lead to fewer distractions and stronger interpersonal skills. Over the coming weeks, our team will be finalizing our policy and procedures to ensure a smooth implementation. Thank you for your cooperation as we implement this new state requirement.
Sincerely,
Mr. Jim Reece, Superintendent & Elementary Principal
Mr. Adam Wiginton, Middle & High School Principal





