News Summary
The Knox County Board of Education has enacted a new policy banning wireless communication devices during instructional time to reduce distractions and online bullying.
Knoxville, TN – The Knox County Board of Education has enacted a strict new policy prohibiting the use of wireless communication devices (WCDs) during instructional time in an effort to minimize distractions and combat online bullying. This decision aligns with a recent Tennessee state law aimed at enhancing focus within the classroom.
The policy, which received approval during a board meeting on July 10, 2025, passed with a vote of six in favor, two against, and one abstention. It will take effect in the upcoming academic year beginning in August 2025.
The new restrictions impact various devices such as cellphones, smartwatches, tablets, laptops, and smart glasses. Under this policy, students are prohibited from using these devices during class unless granted permission by a principal for specific educational purposes. The board considered allowing limited access for students during lunch or between classes but ultimately decided against these options, emphasizing the need for a focused educational environment.
While the policy is comprehensive, it does provide certain exceptions. Students may use their devices in emergencies or to manage health-related conditions, such as monitoring blood sugar levels. Moreover, devices that are part of a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), Section 504 plan, or Individual Learning Plan will also be permitted during instructional time. Importantly, district-issued laptops or tablets designated for educational purposes are exempt from these new restrictions.
Violations of the policy will have consequences. Students found using WCDs inappropriately during class may have their devices confiscated, which will only be returned to a parent or guardian. Additionally, students may face disciplinary action if they do not adhere to the guidelines set forth by the new policy. Teachers are also empowered to restrict WCDs from students if they are found to be a source of distraction during instructional time.
This newly adopted policy reflects the board’s commitment to fostering a productive learning environment. Prior to approving this initiative, board members consulted with the community and received feedback indicating a general preference for stricter device regulations aimed at enhancing student focus and interpersonal relationships within school settings. Some board members advocated for stricter policies in light of the negative impact distractions can have on academic performance, while others expressed concern about restricting access for high school students who may need to respond to important communications.
The decision to implement this policy comes as part of a broader initiative by the state to enhance the educational experience and safety for all students across Tennessee schools. By equipping teachers with the authority to confiscate WCDs during instructional time, the law expands upon previous regulations and underscores the importance of maintaining a distraction-free classroom.
As schools prepare to implement this new policy, educators and administrators are expected to receive guidance on how to effectively enforce these rules while considering the needs of their students. The Knox County Board of Education’s decision marks a significant step toward creating an environment conducive to learning and reducing instances of bullying facilitated by electronic devices.
With the policy set to take effect this coming academic year, schools across Knox County are preparing to adapt to these changes, ensuring that students are educated in a focused and distraction-free setting.
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Additional Resources
- Knox News: Knox County Schools All-Day Phone Restriction
- WBIR: State Bill on Cell Phones and Computers in Schools
- Knox News: Knox County School Board Phone Rules Discussion
- Wikipedia: Cell Phone Use in Schools
- WBIR: Knox County Schools Investigating Teacher’s Social Media Posts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
