Arkansas Act 122: “Bell To Bell, No Cell”

If you graduated prior to 2010 and don’t have school-aged children, you might not realize how prevalent cell phone usage has become in public schools. Since the rise of Generation Alpha, also referred to as “iPad kids” by the media, educators have been fighting a losing battle with screens. 

Public school districts have tried their own methods to manage the ever-growing problem cell phones create in learning environments, but one fact remains clear: students will not retain the necessary educational material if they are distracted during lesson plans.

Arkansas lawmakers saw the need for statewide reform against cell phones in school, and in February 2025, Act 122 was signed into law by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. But what does that mean for Arkansas students? And what unique challenges will Act 122 bring for co-parents?

What is Act 122?

From the first toll of the morning bell to the last ring of the school day, students are not allowed to use cell phones anywhere within the school. This includes lunch periods, bathroom breaks, and time in the hallway.

Interestingly, this ban doesn’t just include cell phones, but all personal electronic devices including earphones, smartwatches, and anything that can transmit data is off limits to students during the school day. They must be turned off and stored in a district approved spot such as a locker or backpack. 

There are some important exceptions to Act 122: 

• Children with a 504 or individualized education plan (IEP) that involves using a personal communication device

• Emergencies including natural disasters and active threats

• School-issued technological equipment 

Since every Arkansas school district has adopted “Bell To Bell, No Cell,” residents looking for more information should visit their district website. For example, Elkins public schools posted an informational blog detailing Act 122 for their district. 

Does My Child Qualify For An Exception?

Likely not. If your child does not have a previous 504 plan or IEP, they would only be able to use their cell phone in case of emergencies. If the lesson plan requires technology, then the school will distribute and monitor use as it relates to the educational material.

Parents of children who need educational tools like personal communication devices have plans in place that permit use outside of the “Bell To Bell, No Cell” law. Simply put, these parents aren’t questioning if their child would qualify — they already know, based on their child’s education needs, that they need extra assistance communicating and will be exempt from Act 122. 

Tips For Co-Parents Navigating Act 122

Co-parents, the team of legal professionals at Hickey & Hull knows the introduction of Act 122 will be a source of conflict for some. If you have established a custody system that relies on the parent and child communicating during the school day, you’ll need to find a new method.

Parents with multiple approved individuals for drop off and pick up can call the school if the pick-up person or vehicle changes during the day. If this is a frequent occurrence, work with the front office staff for possible solutions.

Parents with unpredictable schedules should communicate with other adults and not the school-aged child about after-school activities. For example, if the child was set to be picked up by mom, but needs to ride the bus to dad’s house instead, a phone call to the front office will inform the child where to go after school.



Co-parents who communicate through their child should find other means to discuss plans. Asking your child to tell the other parent time-sensitive information means that they will not be available during the school-day. Therefore, texting a student at 10 AM and asking them to pass a message along to a coparent by 3 PM is unrealistic because the student only has access to their phone at the final bell.

In cases of suspected abuse, some parents use the school day as a safe space to text children about conflict in the other parent’s house. If this is your primary concern, it’s time to consult with a lawyer about changing the custody schedule.

Unless you're a minor using a cell phone during school hours, there’s nothing stopping you from calling Hickey & Hull at (479)-‍434-2414 to schedule your initial consultation. Our family law attorneys can navigate the intricacies of custody schedules while you focus on keeping your family safe.