FORT WAYNE, Indiana – Teachers in Fort Wayne Community Schools and other districts say the statewide ban on personal devices, which took effect on July 1, is already making classroom management easier. Senate Enrolled Act 78 expands Indiana’s existing restrictions to cover the entire school day, applying to both public and charter schools.
How the law works
Under the new law, schools may either prohibit personal devices outright or require students to keep them powered off and stored until the end of the day. Exceptions are permitted for emergencies, medical needs, and accommodations outlined in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan.
Local implementation
Fort Wayne Community Schools (FWCS) had already piloted a similar approach before the statewide mandate. The district uses magnetic‑sealed pouches – supplied by Yondr – for phones, smartwatches and earbuds. FWCS Communications Manager Scott Murray told the Indiana Capital Chronicle that the policy has taken pressure off teachers who previously had to repeatedly remind students to put devices away. The district spent roughly $420,000 on the pouches during the first year and an additional $120,000 on replacements.
Teacher feedback
Many teachers say the uniform rule has reduced classroom distractions and boosted student engagement. “Having a clear, statewide requirement means we no longer have to negotiate device policies with each school,” Murray said. “It creates consistency and lets us focus on instruction.”
Challenges for advanced coursework
Carroll High School Principal Cleve Million noted that the ban presents hurdles for advanced placement (AP) and dual‑credit classes. Some students previously used phones to scan QR codes that linked to materials provided by university partners. Those partners are now developing alternative delivery methods, such as printed packets or secure learning portals, to comply with the new rule.
Enforcement and consequences
Schools are also establishing consequences for violations. At LaVille Jr.-Sr. High School near South Bend, a first offense results in the student’s device being confiscated until the end of the day, while repeat offenses can lead to a $25 fine. Educators say these measures reinforce the importance of staying focused during instructional time.
Remaining questions
While many teachers welcome the consistency, questions remain about how the law will handle instructional uses of personal devices, such as real‑time research or specific classroom apps. Several educators emphasized the need for clear guidance on exceptions and accommodations to ensure that students with legitimate needs are not disadvantaged.
Statewide impact
Since the law’s implementation, educators across Indiana have reported fewer distractions and higher levels of student participation. The uniform policy is seen as a tool that helps schools enforce device rules consistently, supporting a learning environment that aligns with traditional family values and the right of parents to expect focused instruction.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
