New Indiana law requires schools to adopt tech regulations in effort to keep phones out of class

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- When Indiana students head back to school in the coming weeks, they'll leave behind many of their electronics.

That's because a new state law requires district to adopt technology regulations for classrooms.

Different districts have different rules. Some require phones to be turned off unless there's direct permission from a teacher. Others have rules that differ based on the age group.

Teachers say fewer phones in the classroom will mean fewer distractions, but some parents worry about safety.

"A lot of the parents are still going to send their phones, they pay the bill, they're sending the phone, on their kid's person, whether it's in their bag, or whatever, with them constantly," Parent Odessa Wallace said.

The law doesn't just apply to cell phones. Districts are also regulating usage on personal laptops, smart watches and gaming devices.

One school that has already begun making changes to combat phone addiction amongst students.

Community Montessori in New Albany is implementing the use of Yondr pouches. Starting this next school year, students will be required to keep their phone in the pouch during the school day. The pouch stays in their backpack until the end of the day, when they'll use a special magnet to unlock the pouch.

A national study on teen health found about 1 in 5 teens reported symptoms of anxiety or depression. Many educators feel cellphones are a big part of that problem.

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