GRANDVIEW, Missouri – The Grandview School District has informed parents of its updated cell phone policy beginning August 20.

It is another district in the area that has enacted stricter cell phone rules ahead of the new school year.

Elementary school students must carry their phones switched off in their backpacks or at the school office.

Middle school students must have their phones turned off and stored in their lockers.

For high school students, devices must remain in the bag or backpack, but must be turned off or set to silent.

One mother, Debby Ryan, whose child is in elementary school, said these rules are much stricter than they used to be.

She wants to be able to reach her children in an emergency.

“I understand why they need these policies, but I also think they need to have the option to keep their phone nearby,” Ryan said.

According to a survey by the National Parents Union, 80% of parents believe their children should be allowed to look at their mobile phones at some point during the school year.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Jacqueline Nesi said researchers have found that schools have had success with any cell phone ban, whether complete or partial.

Enforcement is more important, she said.

“If everyone is involved and everything is done the right way, I think they can be really effective,” Dr. Nesi said.

Grandview is another school district in the Kansas City area that has enacted stricter cell phone rules ahead of the new school year.

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KSHB 41 reporter Caroline Hogan is covering developments throughout the Kansas City area. Share your story idea with Caroline.