TSC News Post

Beginning with the 2026-27 school year, Tippecanoe School Corporation students must keep personal electronic devices powered off and stored away during the school day in accordance with a new Indiana law.

Senate Enrolled Act 78 requires all Indiana school districts to prohibit student use of personal wireless communication devices from the start of the school day until dismissal.

Under TSC's updated policy, students may bring devices to school, but they must keep them powered off and inaccessible during the school day. Students may store devices in a backpack, purse, locker or vehicle.

The policy applies to cell phones, smartwatches connected to cellular or internet services, gaming devices, personal laptops and tablets and other personal electronic devices. The policy does not apply to district-issued devices used for instruction.

"This policy is about helping students make the most of their school day," Superintendent Scott Hanback says. "Removing distractions allows students to focus on learning, engage in class and build stronger connections with their teachers and classmates."

The school day is defined as "bell to bell," meaning students may not access personal devices during passing periods, lunch or instructional time.

The law includes exceptions for students who require devices for documented medical needs, individualized education programs, translation services or other circumstances permitted by state law.

Families who need to contact their child during the school day may do so through the school's main office. Schools will continue to contact parents and guardians directly in the event of an emergency.

TSC is updating student handbooks to reflect the new requirements. Consequences for violations will follow a progressive discipline process that may include device confiscation, parent pickup of confiscated devices and additional disciplinary action for repeated violations.