Personal Communication Devices Policy - August 2025

Dear New Albany-Plain Local Schools Families,

We want to inform you of a new law passed by the Ohio Legislature as part of the recently approved State Budget Bill (HB 96). Beginning this school year, students are prohibited from using personal communication devices (PCDs)—including cell phones, smartwatches, and other personal devices not issued by New Albany-Plain Local Schools—during the instructional school day, including class transitions and lunch/recess.

This law, enacted by the Ohio General Assembly, requires all public schools in Ohio to adopt policies that eliminate the use of personal electronic devices during instructional time. The goal of this legislation is to minimize distractions, enhance academic engagement, and support student well-being. In response, the NAPLS Board of Education has adopted Policy 5136: Personal Communication Devices.

What This Means for Our Students

Effective August 18, 2025, students at New Albany-Plain Local Schools will not be permitted to use cell phones or other personal electronic communication devices during school hours, including class transitions and lunch.

Students may bring these devices to school, but they must be powered off and stored out of sight during the instructional day. Devices may only be used before or after school, at after-school events and activities, and on school transportation with the approval of an advisor, coach, or bus driver.

We understand that families may rely on mobile phones to stay in touch during the school day. Please rest assured that in the event of an emergency or urgent matter, parents and guardians can contact the school office directly. We remain committed to maintaining clear and open communication.

Implementation and Expectations

Over the coming weeks, our schools will:
• Communicate building-specific expectations and procedures with students and families.
• Provide guidance on where and how devices should be stored during the school day.
• Reinforce the appropriate use of technology for learning purposes.

Student handbooks have been updated to reflect this change in procedures and expectations. We encourage all families to review the updated information carefully.

We appreciate your support and partnership as we implement this new state mandate. Together, we can foster an environment focused on academic excellence, learning, and student well-being.

In addition NAPLS administrators have developed a FAQ that you may find below. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact any of the administrators listed below. Thank you for your understanding and continued support of New Albany-Plain Local Schools.

Sincerely,

Scott Emery, Director of Elementary Education (Preschool to Grade 6)
Bryan O’Shea, Director of Secondary Education (Grades 7-12)
Michelle Levero, Early Learning Center Principal (Preschool to Kindergarten)
Teresa Smith, Primary School Principal (Grades 1-3)
Megan Ballinger, Intermediate School Principal (Grades 4-6)
Kevin Freeman, Middle School Principal (Grades 7-8)
Dr. Rob Russell, High School Principal (Grades 9-12)