GLYNN COUNTY, Ga. — Glynn County students will notice some changes to the cellphone policy this school year as the district works to establish new rules for personal devices in response to a new Georgia law.

Under the “Distraction-Free Education Act,” no personal electronic devices are allowed during school hours, including in classrooms, hallways and recess for students in kindergarten to 8th grade. Glynn County Schools says to maintain consistency across all grade levels, the same rules will be implemented for high school students.

While the law doesn’t go into effect until 2026, Glynn County Schools said it’s starting the initiative early to align with the new law and ensure a smooth transition without any disruptions.

“At Glynn County Schools, our primary goal is to ensure the best possible learning environment for our students,” the school district said in a press release on Aug. 1. “With the implementation of the Distraction-Free Education Act, we are committed to providing a focused and productive educational experience for all grade levels. We believe that these changes will enhance student engagement and success.”

The banned devices from bell-to-bell include cellphones, smartwatches, headphones or earbuds, tablets or e-readers and anything that connects to the internet, plays music or games or sends messages. The school district says devices are only allowed before school starts, after the final bell or if a student’s medical plan allows it.

During school hours, devices can be stored in a student’s locker, locked pouch or in a safe spot in the classroom.

Students who don’t follow the new policy will be given disciplinary actions. The school district says that first, students will be given a warning; if a device is seen again, it will be confiscated and returned at the end of the day; any further violations will result in the device being turned over to the front office and a parent or guardian will have to pick it up.

The school district asks parents who need to get in contact with their children during school hours to call the school’s front office.

“Our staff is available to relay important or time-sensitive messages,” the school district said.

The new changes go into effect on the first day of school, which is Wednesday, Aug. 6.

For more information on the changes, visit here.