Aug. 20. As the final week of summer break comes to a close, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is reminding families about a new state law that restricts the use of personal technology devices during the school day.

House Bill 959 and General Statute 115C, which take effect this school year, prohibit the use of cell phones during classroom instruction, except in emergencies. While CMS has instituted similar policies in recent years, past enforcement has varied significantly from school to school.

In a recent message to parents, CMS outlined its updated cell phone policy in accordance with the new legislation. The school stated that personal electronic devices—including cell phones, headphones, AirPods, earbuds, Apple Watches and other smart devices—are “not allowed to be seen or heard except during approved times.”

Approved times for device use include before and after school, during lunch, and between classes. Devices used outside of approved times will be confiscated and returned only to a parent or guardian.

Additional restrictions include:

• Upon entering the classroom, students must place all devices into a designated cell phone box.
• Electronic devices may not be used in the classroom.
• All devices must remain in silent mode at all times.
• Cell phones are not permitted in hallways during class, as all students are required to turn them in.
• The use of a cell phone during testing will be considered an Honor Code violation.

Schools are also required to implement a curriculum that educates students about the potential dangers of social media and the overuse of technology.