Dear Families,
As we prepare for a successful school year, we want to inform you of significant changes to student use of personal electronic devices during the school day. These updates reflect House Bill 1105, recently passed by the Florida Legislature, and will be followed by all Florida school districts across the state.
Effective immediately, the following guidelines will be in place for the School District of Manatee County:
Elementary & Middle Schools
Students may not use personal electronic devices (such as cell phones, tablets, or smartwatches) at any point during the school day.
Devices must remain powered off and stored away, including during lunch and between class transitions.
High Schools
Students are prohibited from using personal electronic devices during instructional time, unless:
Authorized by the teacher for educational purposes.
Used in board-approved or school-designated zones.
Students with documented medical or educational needs will be accommodated, in accordance with state law.
Per the State of Florida, these changes were implemented to enhance classroom learning, reduce distractions, and support student well-being.
We appreciate your partnership in helping students understand and follow these new expectations. We are committed to fostering a safe and focused learning environment.