Dear Tecumseh Local Parents,

This letter informs you about an important change regarding students' use of personal communication devices during the school day, prompted by a new Ohio Law.

Ohio Law now requires districts to approve a policy prohibiting the use of personal communication devices by students during the school day by January 1, 2026. This includes during lunch, transitions between classes, and field trips. Personal communication devices include cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds and AirPods.  

While this policy is not mandated to take effect until January, Tecumseh Local Schools will proactively implement this policy at the beginning of this school year rather than waiting until the state-mandated deadline. This earlier implementation aims to establish a consistent learning environment free from distractions from the very first day, fostering improved student focus, social interaction, and mental well-being throughout the year. 

At the elementary schools, the previously established procedure will remain in effect. Students who bring a cell phone, smartwatch, earbuds and AirPods to school must keep these devices in their bookbags, which will remain in their cubbies, for the duration of the school day. 

At Tecumseh Middle School, students who bring a cell phone, smartwatch, earbuds and AirPods to school must keep these items in their locker at the start of the student day and they will remain in their lockers until dismissal.

At Tecumseh High School, students will be assigned a Yondr pouch. A Yondr pouch is a magnetic locking pouch used to secure cell phones and other electronic devices. Students will place their cell phone, Smartwatch, earbuds, and AirPods in the Yondr bag before entering Pride Period each morning. Students may keep their Yondr pouch with them. At the end of the day, students can use the demagnetizing stations located at the exits to unlock their pouches and retrieve their devices. 

We recognize that there may be limited circumstances where students need to carry their cell phones or Smartwatches due to medical needs. For example, if a student uses their cell phone to monitor glucose levels due to diabetes, they may continue to do so. Our school nurses will share with the principals the handful of students who require their personal communication device for medical purposes.

We understand the importance of your ability to reach your children, especially during the school day. Please be assured that in cases of emergency or urgent need, you can always contact the school's main office, and we will ensure your child receives your message promptly and is able to connect with you.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us create the most conducive learning environment possible for our students. Further details regarding this policy will be available in the student handbook and shared through the specific school's communication channels. 

Please contact me if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Paula Crew