Troup County School System to implement electronics policy to create distraction-free environment

LaGRANGE, Ga. (WRBL) — Officials with the Troup County School System announced on Wednesday that they will be implementing a new policy regarding personal electronic devices for students in grades Pre-K through 8th.

Troup County school officials say the new policy will “help minimize classroom distractions and encourage more meaningful interactions among students.”

The policy complies with House Bill 340, known as the Georgia Distraction-Free Education Act, that Gov. Brian Kemp signed into law this summer.

Beginning in January 2026, personal devices like cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, e-readers, headphones, earbuds, smart lenses, and any devices with the ability to record must be turned off and kept out of sight during school hours, according to officials.

The electronics will now be ordered to be put up during class time, lunch periods, class changes, study halls, and other school-related activities. It also applies to field trips, unless a school official grants specific permission.

“Our goal is to create a focused learning environment where students can fully engage with their teachers and peers,” said Dr. Rachel B. Hazel, Superintendent of TCSS. “We believe that by reducing the distraction of personal electronic devices, our students will achieve better academic outcomes and develop stronger in-person communication skills.”

Officials say personal electronic devices are never permitted to be used in restrooms or locker rooms and students are also not allowed to have devices ring or vibrate on silent alerts or send text messages during the school day.

School staff members are authorized to confiscate devices used in violation of the policy, and parents or guardians will be required to pick up the device from the school administration, according to Troup County School System officials.