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Developments in cell phone technology in recent years have resulted in enhanced communication opportunities. However, the use of cell phones in schools poses increasing risks of school disruptions, bullying, criminal activity, and academic dishonesty. As a result, student cell phones, digital cameras and similar electronic devices will be banned during the school day, as well as, in dressing areas during extracurricular activities. Violation of this policy during the first semester after adoption of this policy will result in in-school suspension, while second offenses will result in out-of-school suspension being imposed.
Parents may apply to the building principal to obtain a hardship exception. In such cases, the student’s cell phone must be retained in the principal’s office. Students granted a hardship may visit the office to use their cell phone for approved purposes. Telephones are also available in school offices for parents to contact their students for legitimate reasons. In addition, exceptions to this Policy may be made based upon the provisions of a student’s IEP, §504 Plan and Safety Plan.
Immunity
School employees and volunteers are immune from liability provided that they are acting in good faith and are adhering to this Policy’s disciplinary procedures.
This Policy will be published on the District’s website.
Disciplinary Procedures will be as follows:
• 1st Offense: Saturday School assigned and parent/guardian is required to pick up the confiscated device(s).
• 2nd Offense: Three (3) days of In-School Suspension and parent/guardian is required to pick up the confiscated
device(s).
• 3rd Offense: Five (5) days of In-School Suspension and parent/guardian is required to pick up the confiscated
device(s).
• 4th Offense: Three (3) days of Out-of-School Suspension and parent/guardian is required to pick up the confiscated
device(s).
• Subsequent offense: Five (5) days Out-of-School Suspension and parent/guardian is required to pick up the
confiscated device(s).
After the sixth (6th) offense, student will be placed in alternative school.
Refusal to turn in cell phone to any staff member:
• First Offense: Five (5) days ISS
• Second Offense: Five (5) days OSS
• Third Offense: Ten (10) days OSS
• Fourth Offense: Ten (10) days OSS with recommendation for long-term suspension.