Dear DCSS Families:
We hope you and your family are having an enjoyable summer break. We are writing to inform you of an important policy change that will be implemented in our elementary and middle schools beginning on Jul 31, 2025. This upcoming change will impact your elementary and/or middle school student. Therefore, we want to share details in advance about the Douglas County School System’s new policy on electronic devices, including cell phones, smart watches, and other portable media equipment.
During our June 16 Board of Education meeting, the board members approved Board Policy JCDAF: Use of Electronic Devices by Students. The policy establishes a distraction-free learning environment at our elementary and middle schools. This policy change is required in accordance with Georgia House Bill 340 (Distraction-Free Education Act), which mandates that all local school systems establish policies restricting personal electronic device use during the school day for students in kindergarten through eighth grade.
As outlined in this new board policy, the Douglas County Board of Education believes all students will achieve better academically in a learning environment free from distraction due to the use of personal electronic devices.
Therefore, beginning with the first day of school, students in grades K-8 will not be permitted to access personal electronic devices while on school premises during school hours. Such devices will be secured within backpacks, lockers, or other storage locations. We are providing this advance notice to give families ample time to prepare for this change. Over the coming weeks, schools should share detailed information on how the policy will be specifically implemented.
As always, we strongly encourage you to ensure your information is up-to-date with the district so that communication between home and school is open and readily available.
The Douglas County School System remains committed to providing an environment where all our students can excel academically. With your support, we will continue to provide all students with a first-class learning experience. Thank you very much for your continued support of our school system and our students.
Kindest regards,
Douglas County School System