GCS Digital Communication Guidance for House Bill 959

Effective for the 2025-26 school year, and in response to a new law (House Bill 959), the Guilford County Schools prohibits the use of electronic communication devices, including cell phones, during instructional time.

The Board believes that good instruction requires focus and freedom from the distractions that come with digital communications and seeks to teach students healthy and productive habits related to the use of technology. Consequently, all digital communications, including cell phones, ear buds, paging devices, headphones, and other such communication devices must be disabled and stored away from students during class time. Smart watches may be worn as long as the communication portions of the functions are disabled.

There are very limited times when electronic communication devices may be used by students. These exceptions are:

1. If a student’s written IEP or 504 Plan requires it, or if it is specifically needed for translation services or a written Student Safety Plan,
2. If there is an emergency, such as a need to call 911;
3. If required for a specific instructional purpose expressly directed by the teacher.

Students who violate these directives will face consequences including disciplinary action and, if necessary, confiscation of the communication device. We would appreciate the cooperation of all our education community to help our students stay focused during the school day.

For more information, see the GCS Student Family Handbook.