Personal Electronic Devices
SENATE ENROLLED ACT (SEA) 78
To support a distraction-free learning environment, the Indiana General Assembly passed Senate Enrolled Act 78 (SEA 78), requiring school districts to implement a bell-to-bell ban on student use of personal wireless devices during the school day. Effective July 1, 2026, this state law requirement applies to cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, headphones, tablets, personal laptops, and other personal smart devices not issued by the school.
Any use of personal electronic devices on school property outside of the instructional day remains subject to the Student Technology Acceptable Use Agreement. At any point during the school day, parents can call the main office line of the school to communicate necessary information.
Click here to read a message from superintendent Dr. Shawn A. Smith on SEA 78
Full Day Restriction
Previously, students could use devices, wear headphones, or ear buds during lunch or between classes. Effective July 1, 2026, devices must be powered off and inaccessible for the entire school day. Teachers do not have the authority to provide exceptions.
Expanded Device List
The ban includes cell phones, smart watches, headphones & earbuds not in use with a district issued device, tablets, personal laptops, smart glasses, and gaming devices. In short, any personal smart electronic device not issued by the school is prohibited.
Exceptions
(a) teacher‑directed instructional use on a school‑supplied device;
(b) included in the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP);
(c) included in a Section 504 Plan under the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973;
(d) necessary for the management of a documented medical condition pursuant to a licensed health‑care provider’s order;
(e) necessary for language translation to ensure access for multilingual learners, prioritizing school‑managed tools where available;
(f) authorized by the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee at the appropriate time during an emergency.
Policy Changes |
Previous Practice |
SEA 78 - Effective 7/01/26 |
| Restricted Access | Instructional Time Only | Full Instructional Day (Bell-to-Bell) |
| Lunch/Recess/Passing Period | Often Permitted | Explicitly Included in Ban |
| Smartwatches, Earbuds, Headphones, Etc. | Often Overlooked | Strictly Prohibited |
| Device Storage | Teacher's Desk/Backpack | Inaccessible |
| Personal Computers/Game Systems/Devices | Allowed With Permission | Not Allowed in School |
What does this look like in the MSD of Lawrence Township?
Storage: To meet this new law, all students will be expected to store personal devices in a locker or keep them securely put away and off in their backpack for the entirety of the school day.
Enforcement: Students who do not comply with this law will be subject to school discipline procedures.
Meeting curricular needs: Many students previously used personal devices in certain classes with teacher permission to aid in learning (examples include: yearbook photos or activities, journalism, music turning, etc.). Instructional leaders at the building and district level will work with teachers to identify other resources that comply with state law to meet these needs.
Disclaimer of District Responsibility for Student Device
In accordance with SEA 78, the MSD of Lawrence Township and its employees are immune from civil liability for actions taken in good faith to enforce this policy/law. If necessary, the school may take possession of a student’s personal technology device as part of enforcement of this policy. While reasonable care will be taken, the district assumes no responsibility for the loss, theft, or damage of any personal technology device brought onto school property or to school-related functions, including field trips.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support in fostering a focused learning environment for our students.