Starting in the 2027-2028 school year, cell phones will be banned in high schools “bell-to-bell,” from the first arrival bell to the final dismissal bell, in the state of Illinois.

However, high schools will have an option that permits access during passing periods or lunch, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced at the bill signing on July 28, 2026.

There are exceptions to this law, such as having a phone necessary for medical or health reasons, fulfilling an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan, for communication or English learners, and when a student is a caregiver and responsible for the well-being of a family member, Pritzker’s office said.

The D225 School Board will have several meetings to discuss what changes, if any, will be made, Superintendent R.J. Gravel said. Their first meeting will be in September with the administrative team, and there will be meetings with the faculty committee in the fall and the spring, Gravel explained. After these meetings occur, an update will be provided to the School Board in April as part of the annual Parent and Student Handbook Updates, Gravel added.