Texarkana Arkansas School District Reinforces Cell Ban for New School Year

As the new school year approaches, the Texarkana Arkansas School District (TASD) is reminding students and families that strict limits on personal electronic devices (Tech) will be enforced across campuses, in accordance with Arkansas’ new “Bell to Bell, No Cell Act” (SB142).

The law prohibits students from possessing cell phones or other personal electronic devices during the instructional day, starting the moment they arrive on campus until the final dismissal bell rings. This includes lunch, recess, and class transitions.

TASD actually began this program last school year to limit distractions by introducing Yondr pouches, lockable phone storage, at both middle and high schools. The district says the new state law reinforces its commitment to creating a focused and safe learning environment.

Under the policy, a device is considered “in possession” if it is:

• Held or visible
• Carried in a pocket or worn on the body
• Accessed inside a backpack
• Powered-off devices stored inside backpacks are allowed but may not be used or turned on during the school day.

Prohibited items include:

• Cell phones
• Smartwatches
• Bluetooth-enabled earbuds or headphones
• Non-school-issued tablets or laptops
• Portable gaming consoles
• Digital media or recording devices

Exceptions include:

• Documented medical needs
• Use of school-issued devices for instruction
• Authorized events like field trips or assemblies
• After-school extracurricular activities
• Emergencies such as fire, natural disasters, or medical situations

TASD encourages parents and students to review the updated policy in full before the start of classes to ensure a smooth transition.

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