The following guidelines create a safe and age-appropriate environment for students by establishing guidelines for cell phones and other personal wireless communication devices (including but not limited to watches, ear buds, and other wearable technology). Students must follow these guidelines while on school property, including school buses, or at school-sponsored events regardless of location.

Exceptions to these guidelines may be granted as disability accommodations through Section 504 plans or IEPs when necessary to ensure student access to school and school-sponsored activities. Exceptions may also be granted as part of a student’s health, safety, or other support plan.

Guidelines

K-8 Grade Students

• All functions within personal wireless communication devices must be silenced and stored away during the school day.
• Dual-purpose watches may be worn at school, but wireless/cellular features must be turned off during the school day (e.g., must be placed in airplane mode).
• Cell phones and wireless communication devices may be used on school buses provided the device does not distract the driver, compromise safety, or violate the Prohibited Content and Use for All Students provisions detailed below.

Safety and Privacy

Emergency: Students will be permitted to use a phone in the main office to contact a parent/guardian during the school day should the need arise. If a personal wireless communication device is needed to contact a parent/guardian as part of a reunification following an emergency, staff will provide direction when approved to do so.
Privacy and Respect: Respecting the privacy of others is emphasized; taking photos or videos of classmates, peers, and staff is strictly prohibited on school property, including school buses, or while involved in school-related activities without prior approval of an administrator or staff member.

Expectations

• Students must comply with staff directives and the provisions of this policy to avoid disruption of the educational environment, or they may be subject to disciplinary actions.
• Parents/guardians should not contact their student on their personal wireless communication devices during the school day. Parents/guardians should contact the office with urgent messages for students and the office will facilitate communication.
• Students and families/guardians will receive the cell phone and wireless communication devices guidelines at the beginning of the school year and must read the notice. A student and/or parent’s failure to read the guidelines does not exempt a student from the responsibility to follow these guidelines.
• The student is responsible for adhering to these guidelines and always securing their belongings. Classes and/or instruction will not be stopped to resolve or search for a lost personal wireless communication device.

The following actions will be taken if a student violates PWCS’ cell phone guidelines. Failure to adhere to the terms of the cell phone guidelines will result in the following progressive discipline: