July 2026

Dear Lawrence Township Families,

As we prepare for the 2026–2027 school year, I want to make you aware of a new Indiana law affecting all K–12 public schools across the state. Indiana Senate Enrolled Act 78 (SEA 78) requires school districts to implement a bell-to-bell restriction on student use of personal wireless devices during the school day. This statewide requirement applies to cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, headphones, tablets, personal laptops, and other personal smart devices not issued by the school.

To comply with the law, the MSD of Lawrence Township Board of Education will adopt policy language aligned with SEA 78.

Under the law, students may not use personal wireless devices during the school day, including during class, lunch, and passing periods. Elementary students who bring a personal device to school must keep it powered off and stored in their backpack throughout the day. Middle school students will store personal devices in their lockers. High school students may keep devices in their backpacks or lockers; however, devices must remain powered off and may not be used during the school day.

We recognize that families may need to communicate with students during the school day. Parents and guardians may continue to contact the school office when necessary, and students will have access to classroom and office telephones when needed. School-issued devices will remain available for instructional purposes.

Exceptions remain in place for students with documented medical needs and accommodations identified through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan, as permitted by law.

Additional information is available at LTschools.org/devicepolicy, and families can expect communication from their principals regarding building-specific procedures.

While this represents a change for many students and families, we are optimistic these efforts will help reduce distractions, strengthen student engagement, and promote more positive interactions throughout the school day.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support as we work together to provide safe, focused, and engaging learning environments for all students.

Sincerely,

 

 

 

 

Shawn A. Smith, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools