Lafayette Parish Students Face Saturday Detention If They Violate Cell Phone Policy

(Lafayette, Louisiana) - The 2026-2027 school year is rapidly approaching, and like last year in Lafayette Parish, students are not allowed to have their cell phones on them during the instructional day.

However, the Lafayette Parish School Board has approved updates to the Student Code of Conduct regarding unauthorized electronic devices.

As you will see below, those who violate the policy will face new and stricter consequences for having their device on them during the instructional day, and parents will once again have to be present for the device to be turned over.

Louisiana Law on Cell Phones on Campus

Upon announcing the new policy in Lafayette Parish, the school district did provide the law that's on the books for the state of Louisiana, and it reads:

Under Louisiana Revised Statute 17:239, students are prohibited from possessing an electronic telecommunication device on their person during the instructional day, unless an exception is provided through an Individualized Education Program (IEP), Section 504 Plan, Individualized Accommodation Plan (IAP), or Individualized Health Plan (IHP).

Devices brought to school must be turned off and properly stowed in a backpack, purse, lunch bag, or athletic bag. A device that is visible, heard, used, or found on a student's person during the instructional day is considered a violation.

Now, let's get to the consequences students may face if caught with a device on during instructional hours. LPSS has announced the following:

Consequences for Unauthorized Technology Violations

The following consequences apply districtwide:

1st Offense: In-School Suspension (ISS). Student may retrieve the device at designated times established by the principal.

2nd Offense: Saturday Detention. Parent or legal guardian must retrieve the device.

3rd Offense: Out-of-School Suspension (1–3 days). Parent or legal guardian must retrieve the device.

4th Offense: Out-of-School Suspension (1–3 days). Parent or legal guardian must retrieve the device.

5th Offense: Out-of-School Suspension (1–3 days) with additional disciplinary action as outlined below.

Additional Provisions Announced:

Elementary Schools: A fifth offense results in a recommendation for long-term suspension.

Middle and High Schools (Grades 6–12): Any student who receives a third suspension within the same school year for any offense (excluding dress code or tardiness) is required by policy to be recommended for expulsion.

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The school district has made it clear that when a device is confiscated from a student, all working components of the device, including the SIM card, must be surrendered. Failure to comply will result in a recommendation for long-term suspension for all students enrolled.

Parents, it is important that you make sure your kids are aware of the state law and consequences for their actions if they are found to have a device on them while at school. The school district hopes for a great school year and hopes that everyone has a safe 2026-27 school year.