Mitchell High to Limit Cell Phone Use in Class to Boost Focus

Beginning with the 2025–26 school year, Mitchell High School students will be required to store phones, smartwatches, and Bluetooth headphones during class under a new policy aimed at minimizing distractions and fostering better focus and social interaction.

By Christal Blue April 30, 2025 11:41 am

Mitchell High School phone policy student electronics ban Mitchell SD Mitchell School Board decisions classroom distraction policy 2025 smart device rules Mitchell High Bluetooth headphone restrictions South Dakota school board meetings Mitchell High art competition success student focus and engagement policy Mitchell SD education news — Metro Services

MITCHELL, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) Starting with the 2025-26 school year, Mitchell High School students will need to store their phones, smartwatches, and Bluetooth headphones during class to reduce distractions. The new policy, approved this week by the school board, aims to improve focus and encourage social interaction. There are exceptions for medical needs, and the policy will be reviewed after the first year. The board also celebrated Mitchell High’s art students for their top 4 finish in the state competition and made several personnel moves. The Mitchell Board of Education has their next meeting scheduled for Monday, May 12th.

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