COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (DEW) released a report this week highlighting the progress of schools across the state in adopting policies to regulate student cell phone use. The initiative, mandated by House Bill 250 and signed into law in May by Governor Mike DeWine, aims to limit cell phone use in K-12 schools to improve classroom performance and mental health.

Governor DeWine emphasized the importance of the measure, stating, “We know cell phones in schools are harmful for students, both in terms of their performance in the classroom and their mental health.”

The law requires all schools to have a formal cell phone policy by July 1, 2025. According to the report, 61% of districts statewide have already adopted policies, and others are working to meet the deadline. Exceptions allow students to use cell phones for documented purposes such as Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or health monitoring.

DEW has provided a toolkit to assist schools in implementing the policy. The toolkit includes strategies for reducing cell phone reliance, fostering healthier behavior, and engaging families in creating positive screen time habits.

Local District Updates

Several districts in the Scioto Valley have already made significant progress. Here is a portion of the area schools:

  • Chillicothe City Schools
    • Policy Status: Formally adopted
    • Implementation Timing: Beginning of the current school year
    • Usage Restrictions: Limited to select times during the school day

  • Circleville City Schools
    • Policy Status: Formally adopted
    • Implementation Timing: Beginning of the current school year
    • Usage Restrictions: Disallowed at any time during standard school hours

  • Union-Scioto Local School District
    • Policy Status: Currently drafting new policy
    • Implementation Timing: Planned for the next school year
    • Usage Restrictions: To be determined

  • Logan Elm Local School District
    • Policy Status: Formally adopted
    • Implementation Timing: Midway through the current school year
    • Usage Restrictions: Limited to select times during the school day

  • Waverly City Schools
    • Policy Status: Policy drafted and ready for adoption
    • Implementation Timing: Planned for the next school year
    • Usage Restrictions: To be determined

  • Piketon Local School District
    • Policy Status: Formally adopted
    • Implementation Timing: Beginning of the current school year
    • Usage Restrictions: Disallowed at any time during standard school hours

Statewide Progress

Out of 1,008 school districts and community schools surveyed, 98% responded, showcasing the overwhelming commitment to improving student engagement by reducing distractions caused by cell phones.

For more information, read the full report here.