Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, Missouri law (Senate Bill 68, pages 62-64) requires all school districts to adopt a policy restricting students’ use of electronic personal communication devices during the school day. Specifics related to the Republic School District's procedures are listed in the Student/Parent Handbook.

According to the law, district policy must include the provision that students will not be allowed to use or display these devices during the school day – including during class, lunch, breaks, passing periods and study halls.

Phone-free schools promote focused learning, respectful interactions and a safe, welcoming school climate. In previous years, PK-8th grade students have not been permitted to use any electronic sending or receiving devices during class. All students’ phones, smartwatches and other devices will now need to be stored in backpacks for the entire school day.

Below, we've listed some Frequently Asked Questions.