While cell phones offer benefits in communication and access to resources, excessive or inappropriate use during school hours has been linked to decreased focus, poor mental health, sleep disruption, and increased conflict among students. Phone-free classrooms promote better learning, stronger relationships, and fewer distractions.
To support a focused learning environment, our policy is simple:
Phones, MP3 players, and other devices are not allowed during class time. Devices, headphones, and earbuds must be put away. Phones and other electronic devices must be turned off and kept in bags for the entire class period. Students may only use their phones during non-class time, such as passing time, lunch, or after school.
At the start of each class, teachers will give a clear reminder for students to turn off and put away their phones and electronic devices. Phones may not be carried to the bathroom or other parts of the school during class.
First time:
If a phone is seen or used after the reminder, any staff member may confiscate it. The phone will be held until the end of the day and returned by the teacher or office staff. If an early return is needed, the student must bring a note from the staff member granting permission.
Second time:
If a student refuses to hand over the phone, they (and/or the phone) should be sent to the office. The office will contact a parent or guardian, who must come to school to pick up the phone.
Repeated or serious violations:
If a student repeatedly violates the cell phone policy, parents will be contacted and the student will be required to check in their phone at the front office each morning for the rest of the quarter.
Depending on the nature of the phone violation, a student may lose the privilege of having a phone at school for the rest of the quarter or the remainder of the school year.
Infractions include having the phone out during scheduled class time or misusing the phone in ways that violate safe school policies.
Teachers are expected to teach and explain the policy, share the reasoning behind it, and provide students opportunities to reflect on how phone use affects their learning. If a student says they need to make or take an urgent call, they must go to the front office.
All staff must model expectations by keeping their own phones turned off and out of sight during class.