Students may not display or use cell phones or other “electronic personal communication devices” (“devices”) (as defined below) from the beginning of the school day (the first bell) through the end of the school day (the last bell), including, but not limited to, during instructional time, meal times, breaks, time between classes, and study halls.  Students must keep all devices powered off and stored in a lock box or designated areas determined by the administration.    

Exceptions will be allowed when the display and use of the device is necessary for compliance with the following:

1. A student’s individualized education program, or IEP developed pursuant to the IDEA, 20 U.S.C. Section 1401;
2. A student’s 504 Plan, created pursuant to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. Section 794;
3. A student’s individualized emergency health care plan or an individualized health care plan established under Section 167.625 RSMO;
4. The Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. Section 12101;
5. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. Section 794;
6. The Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. Section 2000e;
7. The Equal Educational Opportunities Act of 1974, 20 U.S.C. Section 1701 regarding English language learners, as defined in 29 U.S.C., Section 3102;
8. In the case of an “emergency”, defined as a serious, unexpected, and dangerous situation that requires immediate action, including, but no limited to the following:
   1. An active fire;
   2. An active tornado or earthquake;
   3. An active shooter;
   4. An evacuation of school grounds; or
   5. A medical emergency.
9. When directed to use such device for an educational purpose.

“Electronic personal communication devices” are defined as any portable device that is used to initiate, receive, store, or view communication, information, images, or data electronically, and includes, but is not limited to, cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, iPods, MP3 players and beepers). 

Students who violate this policy will be subject to discipline in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct, and Board Policies and Regulations 2600 and 2610.  Consequences for violation of this policy are set forth in the Student Code of Conduct and Board Policy/Regulation 2610.   

Further, school officials are authorized to confiscate a device if the official determines that a student has disrupted the learning environment through the use or display of a device, has displayed or used a device during unauthorized times, or has used or displayed a device without permission.  Confiscated devices will be returned, at the school official’s discretion, to the student’s parent or guardian at the end of the school day or as soon as practicable as determined by a school official.  However, school officials are authorized to provide the confiscated device to law enforcement officials, if authorized pursuant to law, or to otherwise retain the device, if authorized by law.  Confiscated devices are subject to search pursuant to Board policy.  The school is not responsible for lost or stole cell phones or other electronic personal communication devices.