FOCUS Act (Cell Phone Ban) FAQs

Can my child check their phone during lunch, class transitions, or designated times?

Under the FOCUS Act, the instructional day is defined as being from the morning bell to the dismissal bell. Personal electronic devices must be turned off and stored off the student’s person from the morning bell until dismissal. As this is a state law, Oxford City Schools must follow the guidelines set by the Alabama State Department of Education.

How will schools keep devices secure during the day?

Each school will implement its own storage procedures. These may include classroom bins, wall or door pocket organizers, or MacBook cases and purses for older students. Our PK - 6 schools have had procedures in place for several years to store cell phones during the day and will continue to follow the same procedures. Our 7 - 12 students may store devices in purses or MacBook cases.

What happens if my child forgets to store their device properly? What are the consequences?

Violations of the FOCUS Act will be handled according to the Oxford City Schools Student Code of Conduct. Disciplinary action will follow a progressive approach, with increasing consequences for repeated offenses. Parents or guardians will be required to pick up any confiscated devices from the school.

Why are personal electronic devices banned, but students are issued laptops?

School-issued laptops are provided for instructional use and are managed under the school’s technology and security policies. Personal devices, by contrast, are not controlled by the school system and are more often used for non-instructional purposes.

How do I get a message to my child during the school day?

If you need to contact your child during school hours, please call the front office of their school. School staff will ensure the message is delivered promptly.

Why is Oxford City Schools banning personal electronic devices?

Oxford City Schools is complying with Alabama’s new FOCUS Act, which prohibits students from using personal electronic devices during the instructional day. This is a statewide law.

What counts as a personal electronic device?

 Personal devices include, but are not limited to:
 • Cell phones
 • Smart watches
 • Wireless earbuds
 • Bluetooth-enabled headphones
 • Smart glasses
 • Pagers/beepers
 • Any device capable of transmitting data via Bluetooth or a mobile network

Why are teachers allowed to have their phones but not students?

Teachers are expected to model appropriate behavior and have been instructed not to use their phones for personal communication during instructional time. Their professional responsibilities and expectations differ from those of students.

What if my child needs a personal device for medical or documented reasons?

Exceptions are permitted under the law for documented needs. If your child has a health condition or other circumstance that may require the use of a personal electronic device, please contact your school administrator for guidance.