The new academic year is on the horizon—or already started—for numerous schools in Central Illinois, prompting school districts statewide to update their cell phone policies for the 2025-2026 term.

This year, Champaign School District announced that cell phones must not be used during class time. In a message to district families, the school specified that students should stow phones/electronic devices in pockets or backpacks, ensuring they are turned off or silenced while classes are in session.

Students can use electronic devices during lunch in both middle and high school cafeterias. High school students will also have the opportunity to use their phones during passing periods.

In June, the Danville School District implemented a new rule requiring students at Danville High School and North Ridge Middle School to keep phones in Yondr pouches throughout the school day.

Windsor and Martinsville School Districts are also implementing phone-free policies this year.

The Windsor School District in Shelby County is adopting Yondr pouches, magnetically sealed fabric pouches, to secure students’ phones during school hours. Meanwhile, Martinsville in Clark County will utilize NuKase hard cases—known for their durability and tamper resistance—as per district information.

A magnetic device unlocks both systems, allowing the student to retrieve their phone at the end of the day.

Regional Superintendent Dr. Kyle Thompson said evidence indicates that there are benefits to phone-free schools.

“Research increasingly suggests that minimizing phone distractions enhances academic performance and mental wellness,” noted Thompson. “Our office is delighted to back Windsor and Martinsville with this effort and is prepared to assist other districts interested in similar strategies.”

These changes in districts across Central Illinois reflect a growing movement toward phone-free schools across the country. Last year, multiple districts changed their policies to create a phone-free space in their schools.

Beginning in 2024, Urbana Middle School students were required to place their phones in Yondr pouches. At the high school level, students must put their phones in their pockets, book bags, or designated areas. Phones must be off or silenced.

In Decatur, students are also required to keep their phones and other devices in their locker or a location designated by the students’ teacher.

The Mattoon School District requires high school students to put away their electronic devices into a designated area at the start of each class period. Students are permitted to use their devices during passing periods and lunch.

Springfield students are required to keep their devices off and store them in a designated place out of sight. Students will not be able to use cell phones and electronic devices in the hallways or classrooms, but high schoolers will be allowed to use them during lunchtime.

Phone-free policy supporters hope the changes boost student engagement, reduce disciplinary issues and create a better learning environment for everyone.