After a successful first year in elementary and middle schools, Rome City Schools is expanding its Disengage to Engage initiative to include Rome High School for the 2026-27 school year.
The initiative, which limits student access to personal electronic devices during the instructional day, was introduced last school year for elementary and middle school students. Based on positive results and feedback from teachers and administrators, district leaders have chosen to expand the program to the high school one year before it becomes required under Georgia law.
While House Bill 340 bans electronic devices for students in Kindergarten through 8th grade, House Bill 1009, which was signed into law by Governor Kemp this past May, requires all Georgia school districts to also prohibit students in grades 9-12 from accessing personal electronic devices during the school day beginning no later than July 1, 2027. By implementing the initiative this school year, Rome City Schools will be able to build on the lessons learned during the program's first year while providing a consistent experience for students across the district.
Under the updated expectations, students in grades 9-12 will not be permitted to access personal electronic devices during the instructional day except as required by law or approved by the district. The plan also establishes procedures for students participating in dual enrollment, work-based learning, and apprenticeship programs.
The initiative is designed to reduce classroom distractions, increase student engagement, and strengthen relationships between students and teachers.
"Every minute in the classroom matters," Superintendent Dr. Eric L. Holland said. "Our elementary and middle schools experienced tremendous success with Disengage to Engage last year. We saw students more engaged in learning, teachers able to focus more on instruction, and stronger interactions in the classroom. Expanding the initiative to Rome High School allows us to build on that success while creating a consistent learning environment across our district."
Disengage to Engage is one of several initiatives Rome City Schools is implementing during the 2026-27 school year to strengthen student achievement, improve school culture, and continue moving the needle for every student.