Bell-to-Bell, No Cell Act

Academy of Math & Science to implement “Bell-to-Bell, No Cell Act” beginning in the 2025-26 School Year

Academy of Math & Science Little Rock

July 7, 2025

In compliance with the new Arkansas state law SB 142, the “Bell-to-Bell, No Cell Act,” Academy of Math & Science Little Rock will begin enforcing restrictions on student possession of personal electronic devices during the school day. Under this new law, students are prohibited from possessing cell phones or other personal electronic devices during the instructional day, from the moment they are required to be on campus until they are dismissed. This policy includes lunch, recess, and all transitions during the day. The “Bell-to-Bell, No Cell Act” is designed to support a more focused and distraction-free learning environment while reinforcing student engagement and safety on campus.

Devices are considered “in possession” if they are:

Held or visible
Carried in a pocket or worn on the body
Accessed while inside a backpack

Powered-off devices stored inside backpacks are not considered to be in a student’s possession. However, these devices must remain powered off and must not be accessed at any time throughout the school day.

Prohibited devices include, but are not limited to:

Cell Phones
Smart Watches
Bluetooth-enabled earbuds/headphones
Tablets or laptops not issued by the school
Portable gaming consoles
Digital media players
Video or audio recording devices

Students are allowed to possess or use a personal electronic device only in the following circumstances:

A documented health requirement as prescribed by a medical professional
When a device has been issued by the school for instructional purposes
During authorized school-related events such as field trips or assemblies
During after-school extracurricular activities
In the event of an emergency such as:

- Fire, tornado, or natural disaster
- Active shooter or school evacuation
- Medical emergencies