The Birmingham Board of Education has adopted updates to its student code of conduct to comply with Alabama’s new Focus Act. The law prohibits the use of cell phones and other wireless devices during the school day. These changes will take effect when school resumes on August 7.
Goal: Fewer Distractions, More Focus
Superintendent Dr. Mark Sullivan acknowledged that while the change may be difficult at first, the long-term goal is clear. “We know this will be an adjustment for students and their families,” he said. “But the goal is to reduce distractions and keep our students focused on learning while they are in the classroom. This is a goal that we wholeheartedly support.”
What the Focus Act Requires
Under the Focus Act, which was signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey, students must power down and store communication devices during school hours. This includes phones, tablets, iPads, smart glasses, earbuds, and gaming devices. These items cannot be kept in backpacks, purses, or even pockets. However, students who rely on medical devices such as insulin pumps or other aids for disabilities are exempt from the rule.
Implementation with Yondr Pouches
To help with the rollout, Birmingham City Schools will use Yondr pouches at several campuses. Students at Wenonah High School, Woodlawn High School, Jones Valley Middle School, and Ossie Ware Mitchell Middle School will be required to lock their devices in secure pouches at the beginning of the day and retrieve them after school. These pouches are already used in places like courthouses and concert venues to create phone-free environments.
Communication During School Hours
Parents who need to reach their children during the school day are asked to contact the school’s main office directly. “We understand that our students are not the only ones who will have to adjust to this new policy,” Dr. Sullivan added. “It’s important for all of us to support our parents through this transition, too.”
Consequences for Violations
Students who break the rule will have their devices confiscated. A parent or guardian will need to retrieve the item from the school. Repeat violations will lead to further disciplinary action, including parent conferences, counseling, Saturday school, detention, and potentially suspension.
As the new school year begins, Birmingham schools are focused on creating classroom environments that support learning—without the distraction of screens.
Sign up for the Homely Birmingham newsletter to stay up to date on Birmingham.
