GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Grand Rapids Public Schools has updated its device policy to follow a new state law taking effect for the 2026-2027 school year.
The policy follows legislation that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed into law earlier this year that bans cell phones from classrooms during instructional time. Whitmer says the goal is to improve focus in the classroom while minimizing distractions.
Lots of changes ahead of new school year at GRPS
Device use in Grand Rapids schools will vary depending on the student's grade level. Grades K-5 cannot use electronic devices at any time during school hours, while grades 6-12 can use devices outside of instructional time.
The policy also applies to tablets, video games and "devices that can send or receive information via audio, video, data or any other means, devices that can record or playback audio or video."
GRPS Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby believes the updated policy will help students focus on learning.
"It helps our young people be more engaged with one another as well as more engaged with their school work and their teachers, as well," Roby told News 8.
According to the district, devices confiscated under the new rules are sent to the GRPS Department of Public Safety at the District Administrative Offices located at 1331 Martin Luther King Jr. Street SE. A parent or guardian will be contacted to pick up the device. The incident will be reported and documented with Public Safety and the school security office.
The policy does allow exceptions for emergencies and those with special accommodations. The full policy can be found here.
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