What? Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe signed Senate Bill 68 into law July 9. Included in the broad education bill was Section 162.207, which requires school districts in Missouri to adopt policy that, at a minimum, prohibits students’ use of “electronic personal communication devices” from the beginning of the school day until the end of the school day. The law features exceptions for emergencies and for students with specific educational or health needs.
What does the new law mean for FZSD? In Fort Zumwalt, students grades K - 8 have been held to an “off and away” policy, except where educational and/or health needs are a factor. At Fort Zumwalt high schools, students have had access to “electronic personal communication devices”, especially during passing and lunch periods. At the July regular meeting, the Board of Education adopted a policy ensuring the district is in compliance with the new law when it takes effect. (See Policy JFCI and JGR)
Beginning with the first day of school, Aug. 18, 2025, Fort Zumwalt School District policy regarding “electronic personal communication devices” will be off and away all day.
Families should have received email communication from their school principal, and can find information on middle school and high school websites. More information will come from your school as we begin the new year. At Fort Zumwalt School District, it’s our mission to Educate, Empower and Equip Students to Excel - in work and in life. Studies show that students who have devices off and away all day found it easier to concentrate, experience a more positive social environment and see improved academic outcomes. Leaders engage.