District news
The 2024 state model limits personal-device access during the school day

What happened
The State Board’s 2024 model policy prohibits student access to personal electronic devices from arrival until afternoon dismissal. Devices should be powered off and stored as the district directs. This historical policy source does not establish every district’s current implementation.
Why it matters to families
The model covers phones, smart watches and other devices. It requires local procedures and allows specified medical, IEP and Section 504 exceptions and written classroom authorization.
The evidence
The source requires written approval by the superintendent or designee for classroom use and permits written device authorization for student volunteer firefighters or emergency-organization members. It does not create a general emergency exception for all students. The document cites the 2024 budget proviso; later statutory changes were not independently established by this source.
The source
South Carolina State Board model policy prohibiting student personal electronic devices during the school day — adopted September 3, 2024See the full record for South Carolina State Board of Education.
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