News Releases

Messmer Report: Ensuring students are focused in class

Ensuring students are focused in class

By State Sen. Mark Messmer (R-Jasper)

Students should be focused on their coursework when they are in the classroom.

In recent years, however, it has become increasingly difficult for students to remain focused on their lessons as cell phones and other mobile devices have entered the classroom and increased distractions.

This year, I was proud to support a new law that requires schools in Indiana to implement a policy to appropriately limit the use of cell phones and other devices in the classroom.

Senate Enrolled Act 185 will ensure students are paying attention to their teachers and coursework.

While many schools across Indiana already have a student device policy, this new law creates a common-sense standard for all districts to follow.

Under this law, teachers can still allow students to use devices for educational purposes and in the case of an emergency.

Special-needs students will also be able to use devices if it is allowed under their individualized education program.

With Senate Enrolled Act 185, Indiana has become one of the first states in the nation to limit devices in the classroom.

This law was supported by school officials throughout Indiana and will go into effect on July 1.

As always, constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns they may have by filling out a "Contact Me" form on the IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Messmer website or by phone at 800-382-9467.

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State Sen. Mark Messmer (R-Jasper) represents Senate District 48, which
includes Crawford, Dubois, Gibson, Perry, Pike and Spencer counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.