Ritenour Board of Education Approves New Policy Prohibiting Cell Phones and Personal Devices

The Ritenour School District Board of Education approved a new policy prohibiting student use of cell phones and other personal electronic communication devices during the school day during its meeting on Aug. 14, 2025. The policy will go into effect on the first day of school, Monday, Aug. 18. 

Senate Bill 68, which was passed by the Missouri General Assembly in spring 2025 and signed into law by Gov. Mike Kehoe on July 9, mandates that all public school districts and charter schools in the state adopt a written policy to ban student cell phone use throughout the school day, including during breaks and lunch periods. The new law aims to reduce distractions and foster more focused, healthy learning environments for students.

Ritenour’s policy covers cell phones, smartwatches, personal laptops, tablets, video game devices, other portable media players and all other personal electronic communication devices.

To ensure the policy is both supportive and practical, Ritenour convened a district-wide committee this summer that included administrators, teachers, staff, students and family members. The committee’s goal was to shape an approach that reflects the values of the community and supports student success.

“Our committee worked thoughtfully and collaboratively to develop a plan that promotes engagement, positive behavior and digital wellness,” said Superintendent Dr. Chris Kilbride. “We’re committed to creating an environment where students can thrive without the constant distraction of mobile devices.”

As part of the new policy Ritenour staff are also expected to refrain from using personal cell phones or other mobile devices for non-work-related purposes while in the presence of students.