USD 286 is preparing to implement changes required under Kansas House Bill 2299, which establishes new requirements regarding student use of personal electronic devices during the school day and limits social media communication between school employees and students.

Under the new law, district employees may no longer engage in two-way communication with students through social media platforms. Because it is not always possible to verify whether a social media account belongs to a current student, official USD 286 district and school social media accounts will no longer respond to direct messages or engage in comment-based conversations with students.

The law also prohibits students from using personal electronic devices during the school day, including during lunch while students are on campus. Personal electronic devices include, but are not limited to, cell phones, tablets, personal computers, smartwatches, headphones, earbuds, and smart glasses. In addition, these devices must not be accessible to students during school hours while on school grounds.

To comply with these new state requirements, USD 286 is updating district policies, administrative procedures, and student handbooks to align with the requirements of Kansas House Bill 2299.

To comply with the new law, students are expected to:

• Leave personal electronic devices at home whenever possible.

• Leave personal electronic devices in a personal vehicle, if applicable.

• Secure personal electronic devices in the school's designated electronic device lockers upon arrival if they bring a device to school.

Students who bring a personal electronic device to school will be expected to store it in the designated electronic device locker for the duration of the school day. The lockers will remain locked during the school day and will only be accessible by authorized USD 286 staff. Devices must remain secured until dismissal unless an approved exception applies.

Exceptions will be made for students who require communication devices for documented medical needs or as part of an Individualized Education Program (IEP), a Section 504 Plan, or another legally required accommodation.

Please note that these procedures may be refined as additional guidance is received from the Kansas State Department of Education or other state officials.

USD 286 recognizes that these changes may require an adjustment for students and families. We appreciate your patience, understanding, and partnership as we implement this new state law and continue providing a safe, focused, and productive learning environment for all students.