The Polk County Board of Education voted unanimously Monday to adopt Policy 4318, establishing clear guidelines for use of wireless communication devices in Polk County Schools.
The policy aligns with North Carolina Session Law 2025-38, which requires all public school districts to establish wireless communication device policies by January 1, 2026. The North Carolina Legislature passed the new state law earlier this year.
Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, students will be prohibited from using wireless communication devices during the school day across all seven Polk County schools. This includes cellular phones, smartwatches, tablets, gaming devices and other portable devices capable of communication.
“This revised policy not only meets the new state law but also addresses what matters most – our students’ academic success and overall well-being,” said Superintendent Todd Murphy. “This reflects the continued commitment to creating focused, supportive learning environments where students can thrive academically, build meaningful connections with peers and teachers, and strengthen the critical thinking skills they’ll need for the future.”
Key Details
- When: School day runs from the beginning of first class period to the end of last class period
- Where: All Polk County Schools (elementary, middle, high school and early college)
- How: Devices must be stored silently and out of sight during the school day
- Exceptions: Medical needs, IEP/504 accommodations and teacher-authorized educational use
The board has directed district administrators to research tools and methods to help schools more easily enforce the policy while ensuring consistent implementation across all campuses.
Elementary school students will require prior principal approval for students to bring devices to school. Secondary schools will allow students to possess devices, but require them to remain off and stored during instructional time.
Parents and guardians can continue to communicate with students during the school day through school offices, just as they always have. In emergencies, school staff will contact families immediately.
