GETTYSBURG, S.D.(KCCR)- The  Gettysburg School District is one of a growing number of districts across the state and country to clamp down on access to smartphones and devices by students during the school day.  Superintendent Amber Mikkelsen says the decision to make Gettysburg a device-free school started about a year ago.

Along with the backing of the Gettysburg School Board Mikkelsen says the district consulted with some schools that have already gone device-free.

The response to the decision has been overwhelmingly positive.

Grades sixth through 12 students will lock their devices in a magnetic YONDR case that will allow a student to keep the device with them, but not have direct access to.  Students in grades five and under will keep their devices in a classroom or backpack.  All devices must be shut off during the school day.