Media release from Rome, GA City Schools:
Rome City Schools is pleased to announce the implementation of its Disengage to Engage No Cell Phone Initiative, a new procedure designed to enhance student focus and create a more conducive learning environment.
This initiative aligns with the recently enacted Georgia House Bill 340, also known as the Distraction-Free Education Act.
Starting on Aug. 1, all Kindergarten through eighth grade students attending Rome City Schools will be required to turn their personal mobile devices in to their homeroom teacher at the beginning of the instructional day. Students will report back to their homeroom teacher at the end of the instructional day to collect their cell phone.
This new procedure mandates that personal mobile devices, including smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and similar electronic devices, be silenced and collected, without student access, from the first bell to the last.
The Distraction-Free Education Act defines access broadly to include viewing, holding, wearing, or otherwise using a device for purposes such as communication, internet access, gaming, recording, or listening to music.
The primary goal of the Disengage to Engage initiative is to foster a more focused, respectful, and connected classroom environment for students. Extensive research has consistently demonstrated limiting cell phone use during school hours can significantly improve academic performance, support positive mental health outcomes, and increase student engagement in learning and social interactions.
By removing digital distractions, Rome City Schools aims to empower students to be fully present in their educational journey and engage more meaningfully with their peers and teachers.
We understand that new procedures may raise questions, and we are committed to making this transition as smooth, fair, and supportive as possible for all students and families.
Here are key details regarding the implementation of this procedure:
Specific Rules for Device Storage: Students’ cell phones will be stored securely in designated storage boxes within their homeroom classrooms throughout the instructional day. These storage solutions will ensure the safety of devices while minimizing access and distraction.
Procedures for Communication: In the event of an emergency, parents will be contacted directly by the school using the emergency contact information on file. School phone lines will remain open for official communication. We ask parents to call the school if they have a message to pass along to their child. Students will be able to communicate with parents through the front office phones with permission from their teacher.
Details Regarding Exceptions for Students with Documented Medical Needs, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), or Section 504 Accommodations: Students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP), Section 504 Plan, or a medical plan that explicitly mandates the use of a personal electronic device for medical or educational purposes will be permitted to access their device as necessary to fulfill the requirements of their respective program or plan. These accommodations will be reviewed and managed on an individual basis to ensure student well-being and compliance with their specific plans.
Our staff is available to explain the new procedure and answer any questions you may have. We encourage parents and guardians to familiarize themselves with these details.
Rome City Schools extends its sincere gratitude to our parents and community for partnering with us to support safer, more distraction-free, and ultimately more effective learning environments for our children. Together, we can help our students Disengage to Engage and reach their full academic potential.
