The Adel-DeSoto-Minburn School District Superintendent outlines how students are beginning to interact more with each other after a new state law required districts to limit cell phones during the school day.

Governor Kim Reynolds signed legislation into law prior to the 2025-26 school year that all public school districts were mandated to restrict the use of cell phones during instructional time. ADM Superintendent Greg Dufoe tells Raccoon Valley Radio that districts are given the ability to stretch beyond that initial measure, which they have by eliminating cell phones  during  passing periods and lunch time to make it a “cell phone free environment.” 

Dufoe says that the district has been incorporating a policy for the past few years that practiced this measure before it became a state law. He acknowledges that students were reluctant at first, but they have come around to the idea, and he’s witnessing a deeper connection between them.

“I know they didn’t like it largely at the outset especially, but they’ve responded super well to it and we’ve definitely noticed positive things already. And some simple things that we used to take for granted in that they’re talking to each other, and looking at each other more often instead of having their face in their phones, and it’s just brought a healthy change and a needed change.”

Dufoe adds that the parents have been on board with the decision, which is helping students see the importance of socializing. He praises the administration of all school buildings for their commitment to upholding high standards for the school district.