JICJ:  STUDENT USE OF CELL PHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES

The School Committee recognizes that many students possess cell phones and other electronic devices.  These devices may not be used in any manner that disrupts the instructional process or violates School Committee policies or school rules.

The School District shall not be responsible for the loss, theft or damage to cell phones or other electronic devices that students have with them at school, school activities, or on school transportation.

The following provisions apply to student use of cell phones and other electronic devices:

A. Students are prohibited from using privately-owned electronic devices including but not limited to smart phones, smart watches, tablets, music players, electronic games, and other cellular devices at school or at school activities except when the teacher or building principal authorizes use.

B. The use of any electronic devices with camera capabilities is strictly prohibited in locker rooms, bathrooms, and other places where privacy is generally expected.  

C. School administrators may designate appropriate times and places during which electronic devices may be used (e.g., during lunch periods, study halls, or on school buses traveling to school activities).

D. If the use of an electronic device violates a School Committee policy or school rule, the administrator may confiscate the device for the remainder of the school day.  This includes, but is not limited to, harassment, cheating, and violations of the student code of conduct.

E. For repeat and/or serious violations, the administrator shall:

  1.   Confiscate the device and contact parent/guardian.

  2.    Return the device to the parent/guardian.

3. Not allow the device to be brought to school for an extended period of time.

4. Impose consequences up to suspension and/or expulsion, depending on the nature/severity of the incident and the student’s prior disciplinary record.

5. Refer the incident to law enforcement, when applicable.

6. Impose penalties up to suspension or expulsion from school, depending upon the nature and circumstances of the violation and the student’s prior disciplinary record; and

The Superintendent/designee may develop additional rules to implement this policy.  The policy and rules will be communicated to students and parents through the student handbook and/or other means of communication.   

Adopted: July 7, 2009

Revised: June 5, 2012;  November 7, 2017

Cross Reference: JIC–Student Code of Conduct

JIH–Questioning and Searches of Students