Middle School Cell Phone Guidelines

Starting the first day of school, middle school students will not be allowed to use cell phones or any E-device during the school day.

Cell phones and personal digital devices are NOT required resources for students at school. However, we recognize that the prevalence of cell phones among students has increased significantly in recent years. In the school environment, cell phones can be a distraction, an interruption, and occasionally, a tool for exchanging inappropriate information.

AWAY FOR THE DAY

Starting the first day of school from the first class bell to the last class bell, cell phones or other electronic devices including smart watches, and earbuds/air pods should be turned off and put away. We believe this new guideline will create a more positive learning environment and allow our students to be more engaged in classroom activities. As more research on the impacts of cell phone use on adolescents is being published, we understand that it can lead to increased mental health issues in adolescents. Protecting and supporting the mental health of our students is a priority, and we believe that eliminating cell phone use during school will assist us in these endeavors.

WHY do we require cell phones to be off and put away during school?

• Relationships: Students can better connect in real life with their peers and teachers who they interact with every day.
• Focus: Without the distraction of devices students can boost their ability to focus and engage.
• Safety: Limiting social media access during school helps create a more positive learning environment for our school community.

HOW do students manage phones?

Cell phones are required to be off and put away in backpacks/lockers during the school day. Phones are never allowed in bathrooms or locker rooms.

Students who have a medical or other emergency reason for accessing their phone during the day should discuss an exception with an administrator.

If families need to reach their child during the school day, please call the main office. We will ensure students receive messages in a timely manner. For all other non-emergency messages, students may check their phones after school as they leave the building.

IF a student does not meet this expectation, what happens?

• On the first offense, a student will be referred to the office and will pick up their cell phone at the end of the day.
• Expectations around cell phone use at school will be reinforced in partnership with the student’s family.
• If there is a second or third offense, the student’s family will be required to pick up the cell phone from the office.
• If there is a fourth offense, a plan will be made in partnership between the school and the family to either store the cell phone in the office each day or to leave it at home.

We firmly believe that this will positively impact the learning experience of our students and create an environment where every student can thrive academically and socially.

If you have any questions regarding our cell phone guidelines please visit our cell phones webpage or feel free to contact your school directly.

Thank you for your support and cooperation in implementing these new cell phone guidelines. We look forward to a successful school year.