Electronic Devices Policy

Why are we phone-free?

Our school’s mission is focused on your learning, your mental well-being, and building a strong, safe community through restorative practices. Real-world data and feedback from our own students show that constant screen time leads to more distractions, less sleep, and higher rates of bullying or anxiety. Utah state law (Senate Bill 69) also legally requires all schools to be cell phone-free during school hours. We want to help you find a healthy balance and foster true human connection while you are here.

The Main Rule

Utah International has a strict zero-tolerance policy for Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs).

• The Rule: You may not have any personal electronic devices in your possession between 8:30 a.m. and the end of the school day. This policy may also be enforced during certain school-sponsored after-school activities and events.
• What counts as a PED? Any device used for texting, calls, audio, video, or computing that is not owned or issued by the school. This includes cell phones, smartwatches, wireless earbuds, and headphones.
• School Tech Only: You must only use school-issued Chromebooks and school-issued headphones. Personal Bluetooth devices (like AirPods or smartwatches) cannot be used during the school day.

Loss, Theft, and Damage Disclaimer

Students bring personal electronic devices onto school property entirely at their own risk. Utah International Charter School and its staff are not responsible for the theft, loss, or damage of any personal electronic devices brought to school, including during the daily collection, storage, or confiscation process. Students are expected to secure and care for their own belongings.

Daily Procedures: How it Works

1.Morning Drop-Off:
During 1st Period.

As soon as you enter your 1st-period class, you must turn your phone into your teacher. It will be placed into a secure, locked container.

2.Secure Storage:
After the first 5 minutes.

School administrators will collect the locked bins from your classroom and store them safely in the main office storage carts for the day.

3.End of the Day Return:
Last 5 minutes of school.

The storage carts will be brought back to your cohort area, and your 1st-period teacher will return your phone to you right before dismissal.

• Late Arrivals & Early Departures: If you arrive at school late, or if you have to leave early, you must turn in or pick up your phone directly at the Main Office. Do not bring it to your classroom if the morning collection has already happened.

Exceptions to the Rule

“Zero tolerance” means there are no exceptions unless they are officially approved in writing for documented medical reasons, urgent family situations, or SpEd assistive technology.

If you qualify for an exception, you will carry a special salmon-colored Exception Card that you must keep with you and show to any adult who asks.

• Medical Exceptions: Approved by the school counselor or dean. Lara will sign your salmon-colored card, and you will be trained on how to use your device responsibly.
• Special Education Accommodations: The SpEd Director can approve specific headphones or assistive technology and will coordinate with the Dean to get you your card.
• Temporary/Emergency Exceptions: If you have an unusual family situation or emergency and need your phone back early, Abdiweli must approve it and issue a temporary salmon-colored card.

What Happens if the Policy is Violated?

Refusal to Turn in Your Phone: If you refuse to put your phone in the 1st-period bin, you will be sent immediately to the office. The secretary will call home, and a parent or guardian will be required to come to the school to pick up the phone.

If you are caught using a cell phone or a secondary Bluetooth device (like smartwatches or personal headphones) during school hours, the device will be confiscated for the day. Abdiweli may conduct a search if there is a concern that a second phone is being hidden.

Repeated violations will result in the following restorative and disciplinary consequences: