Pinellas County Schools Implement Stricter Cell Phone Rules, Gain Flexibility on Door Security

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL – Pinellas County Schools are heading into the new school year with updated policies regarding cell phone usage and school security. The changes, announced by Superintendent Kevin Hendrick, aim to improve student focus and streamline building access.

Effective immediately,elementary and middle school students are prohibited from using cell phones at any time during the school day. This eliminates previous allowances for instructional use at teacher discretion. students are permitted to keep phones on their person – in pockets, backpacks, or lockers – but they must remain out of sight.

“Giving them an hour every class period to just say, ‘I don’t have to look at social media, I don’t have to worry about whatS going on in the world, I can just focus on math or English or science is realy a relief,'” Hendrick stated, adding that the policy provides a valuable “mental health break.”

high school policies remain largely unchanged, with students still able to use phones during lunch and between classes. However, phones must be stowed away during instructional time unless specifically required for a lesson.

All students are permitted to use phones in emergency situations.

In a separate development, a new state law grants school districts increased flexibility regarding locked door policies.Previously,all exterior doors and gates were required to be locked whenever students were present,even during non-school hours. The revised law mandates locked perimeter entry points and classroom doors at all times, but allows other doors to remain unlocked outside of school hours and within a 30-minute window before and after the school day.

Hendrick believes this change will improve building flow, particularly for extracurricular activities. “Some of the things that we were seeing and having to deal with just didn’t make sense and weren’t making people any safer,” he explained. “Now you don’t sacrifice safety, but you recognize common sense.”

the district reports positive progress on staffing for the upcoming year. Superintendent hendrick anticipates all vacancies will be filled before the first day of school.

What specific changes to reading instruction can parents expect in early elementary grades to improve literacy rates?

transformations in Florida Schools: Key Updates for the 2025-26 Academic Year

Enhanced Curriculum Standards & Subject Focus

Florida’s education landscape is undergoing meaningful changes for the 2025-26 school year.A major focus remains on bolstering core academic subjects, notably in reading, writing, and mathematics. the state continues to emphasize a “back to basics” approach, with increased rigor in curriculum standards across all grade levels.

Reading Proficiency: Expect a greater emphasis on phonics-based instruction in early elementary grades, aiming to improve literacy rates and address learning loss observed in recent years. new assessments will track student progress more closely.

Mathematics Mastery: The state is implementing updated math standards designed to foster deeper conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization. This includes a stronger focus on problem-solving and real-world applications.

Civics Education: Florida continues its commitment to robust civics education, with expanded requirements for instruction on the U.S. Constitution, American history, and the principles of responsible citizenship.

Financial Literacy: A mandatory personal financial literacy course is now required for all high school students, equipping them with essential skills for managing money, understanding credit, and making informed financial decisions.

Teacher Recruitment & Retention Initiatives

Addressing the ongoing teacher shortage remains a top priority. Several initiatives are underway to attract and retain qualified educators.

1. Salary Increases: The state budget allocates increased funding for teacher salaries, aiming to make Florida more competitive with other states. Specific increases vary by district.
2. Professional Advancement: Expanded opportunities for professional development are available, focusing on areas like instructional technology, differentiated instruction, and classroom management.
3. Teacher Certification Pathways: Florida is streamlining option teacher certification pathways to encourage individuals with relevant experience to enter the profession. This includes programs for veterans and career changers.
4. Mentorship Programs: Increased funding for mentorship programs pairs experienced teachers with new educators, providing support and guidance during their critical first years.

School safety & Security Enhancements

Following recent events,school safety remains paramount. Significant investments are being made in enhancing school security measures.

Mandatory Drills: Schools are required to conduct regular safety drills, including active shooter drills, to prepare students and staff for emergencies.

Security Personnel: Many districts are increasing the number of school resource officers (SROs) and security personnel on campus.

mental Health Support: Expanded access to mental health services for students is a key component of the safety strategy. This includes hiring more school counselors and psychologists.

Secure Campus Access: Schools are implementing stricter access control measures, such as controlled entry points and visitor screening procedures.

expanded School Choice Options

Florida continues to be a leader in school choice. The 2025-26 academic year sees further expansion of existing programs.

Voucher Programs: The Family Empowerment Scholarship Program (FES) and the Hope Scholarship Program provide funding for eligible students to attend private schools. Eligibility criteria have been broadened.

Charter Schools: The number of charter schools in Florida continues to grow, offering parents and students additional educational options.

Magnet Programs: Public schools with specialized magnet programs (e.g., STEM, arts) provide focused learning opportunities for students with specific interests.

Open Enrollment: Open enrollment policies allow students to attend public schools outside of their assigned attendance zone, subject to availability.

Technology Integration & Digital Learning

Technology in education is becoming increasingly integrated into the classroom.

Digital resources: Schools are investing in digital learning resources, such as online textbooks, educational software, and interactive learning platforms.

Device Access: Efforts are underway to ensure that all students have access to digital devices (e.g., laptops, tablets) both at school and at home.

internet Connectivity: Expanding broadband access in rural and underserved areas is crucial for equitable access to digital learning opportunities.

Cybersecurity Training: Increased emphasis on cybersecurity training for students and staff to protect against online threats.

Real-World Example: Impact of Increased Financial Literacy

The implementation of mandatory financial literacy courses in several pilot districts during the 2024-25 school year showed promising results.A study conducted by the Florida Department of Education revealed a 15% increase in students’ understanding of basic financial concepts, such as budgeting, saving, and investing. This positive outcome contributed to the statewide rollout of the requirement for the 2025-26 academic year.

Benefits of These Transformations

These changes aim to create a more robust and equitable education system for all Florida students.Key benefits include:

Improved academic outcomes

Increased graduation rates

Enhanced college and career readiness

A safer and more supportive learning environment

Greater parental choice and involvement

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