4525 Cell Phone Use

The Board of Education recognizes that cell phones are valuable and important communication devices in today’s society, however, the use of cell phones during the instructional day distracts from the learning process.

For the purpose of this policy, cell phones are defined as: cell phones, tablets, electronic watches, tracking devices unless issued by the District, iPads, video game consoles or any other device which has the capability to send/receive messages, take pictures or record video/audio.

Grades K-8

Cell phone use is prohibited during the instructional day.

Grades 9-12

Unless given explicit directions for instructional purposes by faculty or administration, cell phone usage is restricted on campus during instructional time. Cell phone use is permitted in the cafeteria during their scheduled lunch period, however, recording video, taking photos or recording conversations without the permission of all involved are expressly prohibited.

All Students

Students may use personal cell phones on the bus, before or after school hours where it will not serve as a distraction to educational activities including teams, clubs or other school sanctioned programs. When using a cell phone on District property, the following applies:

• Cyberbullying will not be tolerated. Engaging in cyberbullying during school hours or during any school sponsored event will result in disciplinary action.
• Inappropriate use of social media or cell phones, such as vulgar pictures, text messages, or videos, etc. will not be permitted.
• At no time is livestreaming permitted during the instructional day.
• The student is solely responsible for their cell phone.
• Cell phones are not to be used or displayed in hallways during class passing.
• Cell phones are not to be used or displayed in the cafeteria for grades K-8.
• Cell phones are not to be used or displayed in restrooms, locker rooms or any location where there is an expectation of privacy.
• Pictures are not to be taken without the consent of those in the picture.
• Audio or video recording is not to take place without the knowledge of all being recorded. The only exception is when a student has permission from a faculty member to appropriately do so.
• Cell phones are to be powered off during any and all testing.
• Unauthorized recordings are to be deleted in the presence of a district administrator.

It is permissible to record during a school play or sporting event where there is no expectation of privacy. In addition, class syllabi may govern the acceptable use of a cell phone during class time at the secondary level.

During instructional time, students will keep their cell phone and headphones out of sight and set to silent mode. If cell phones are being used during class time or inappropriately, the following may occur.

• Warning to student.
• Notification to parent.
• Confiscation of device: Confiscated items will be returned to the student at the end of the day or to the parent/guardian.
• Privilege revocation – the student may lose their right to bring a cell phone to school.
• Additional disciplinary measures – as deemed appropriate by the principal. This may include detention, suspension or expulsion.

Ref: 5300, Code of Conduct

Approved by the Board of Education: 03/21/24

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