AUTAUGA COUNTY, Ala. (WSFA) – The upcoming 2025-26 school year will be a first for everyone as school systems will need to enforce a new ban on wireless devices in classrooms, namely cell phones.
Each system has the freedom to decide how to enforce the FOCUS Act in their schools.
In Autauga County, students must have their devices- including phones, smart watches, laptops, tablets, and more- turned off and stored somewhere like a locker or bag.
Phones in pockets will not be allowed.
Punishment can range from a warning to time at the system’s Second Chance Alternative School, depending on the student’s grade level and how many times they have broken the rule.
“The rationale behind that is ‘guys whether we like it or not, it is the law,’” said Autauga County Superintendent Lyman Woodfin. “And if a kid’s violating the law in any other way, it’s not a slap on the wrist. So this law has come about. It’s my responsibility to implement the law.”
The devices will still be allowed on buses and “non-instructional times” which will be determined by school administrators.
Read more about Autauga County’s phone policy here.
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