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  • District Updates
Changes to Student Technology & Cell Phone Policy

Finding the right balance with technology in our schools is a priority for Carmel Clay Schools. We want students to build the essential skills they’ll need in a digital world while protecting the opportunities for hands-on learning and face-to-face interaction. We believe those real-world connections are at the heart of how kids learn best.

In our classrooms, technology is used with a specific intention. We want to inspire future innovators who will use technology to change the world for the better! But we also want our students to stay present, curious, and connected to the people around them. We believe both can be true. There are also practical requirements to consider, as Indiana’s mandatory STEM standards for Kindergarten and First Grade, followed by digital state assessments in Second Grade, require students to develop computer proficiency now. Because of this, even our youngest learners need to become comfortable using devices in age-appropriate ways. 

This upcoming school year, we are committed to enhancing our communication about how we use digital tools, the limits we set, and how those expectations evolve as students grow.

Please be aware that the following messages describe significant changes to student technology usage and policies. Many of these changes will take place beginning in the 2026-2027 school year and are in response to newly legislated requirements for all public schools. Please take the time to read through these updates so we can work together to support our students as responsible digital citizens.

Bell-to-Bell No Cell (All Students)
State law requires that personal wireless devices may not be used during the school day beginning July 1, 2026. This policy includes cell phones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches, and all other internet-capable devices, including smart glasses.
All personal wireless devices must be powered off and stored for the entire school day, including during lunch and passing periods.
Students who have medical or educational accommodations may have those addressed through a health plan, 504 plan, or IEP. Families will work with their school team to discuss the need for these types of accommodations.
As with any significant change to policies and routines, we will need parental support to reinforce this expectation so educators can stay focused on teaching rather than managing devices. This includes setting a good example by not contacting students during the school day. Your child's school will communicate ways to assist you in conveying information to your child if needed during the school day. 
Students who do not follow these expectations will receive warnings, and repeated issues may result in device confiscation. Specific guidelines will be released by schools with back-to-school communications. 
Chromebooks to Stay at School (Elementary)
Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, all students, Kindergarten through 5th grade, will keep their Chromebooks at school each day and no longer take them home each night.
Students in 4th and 5th grade may occasionally bring devices home for specific projects. 
All students may be asked to take Chromebooks home if predicted inclement weather may require eLearning.
Current Kindergarten through 4th-grade students will leave Chromebooks at school over the summer. All devices, including chargers, should be returned to school by May 18, 2026, for summer storage.
Current 5th-grade students will take their devices home over the summer and continue using the assigned Chromebook in middle school.
Transition to Google Classroom (Elementary)
Elementary students will transition from Canvas to Google Classroom, providing an intuitive, adaptable environment specifically tailored to the needs of our youngest learners. It is important to note that this transition is the result of a year-long review and is not a response to the Canvas security incident last week. 
Families will learn more about Google Classroom when school begins and at meet-the-teacher nights. 
No Personal Computers/BYOD (High School)
Due to a new state law (S.B. 78), personal devices will no longer be permitted during the school day beginning in the 2026–2027 school year. High school students must use their school-issued Chromebook. We can no longer allow Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) due to state regulations.
To meet specific curricular needs, specialized programs at Carmel High School will provide students with access to course-specific devices for classroom use. 
Chromebook Parental Controls (All Students)
We will roll out a new internet filtering and monitoring system for the 2026-2027 school year. This updated system will strengthen existing protections and provide families with increased monitoring tools.
Families will be able to disable internet access on school-issued devices outside school hours. More information will be shared as this system is implemented during the first semester.