Electronic Device Policy
The allowance to use cell phone/devices during the school day is based, in part, on Section VII. A. [CF] paragraphs 2 and 3 of Student Code of Conduct: “Devices may only be used in certain approved areas of the school. … EarBud/Headphones will only be permitted in labs or lab type settings on a school campus with the approval of administration or classroom teacher.”
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The improper use of a cell phone or electronic devise is a Level One offense, established and addressed in the Student Code of Conduct. In the classroom, the documenting of infractions and interventions should be maintained on a Classroom Infraction Report form, with exceptions referenced below.
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The Student Code of Conduct states: “…such devices can only be used with permission and under the direct supervision of a staff member.” At Springstead HS, this is considered a privilege and is permitted during the following times:
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In classrooms when teachers have declared a BYOD instructional period.
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On campus during passing time before class, between class, and after class.
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Passing to and from the cafeteria and during lunch in the cafeteria or other designated eating areas.
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Devices used for Educational Purposes is defined as activity that is directly or indirectly related to the student’s school day and/or function. These permitted uses may include, but are not limited to:
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Communicating school business with parents, teachers, or peers, via phone call, text message, “Remind” app, educational research for school assignments and projects, etc.
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Viewing school-based social media to learn about current news, school events and/or activities.
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Prohibitive Use of Devices are:
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ANY audio function, including utilizing ear buds or recording sound
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Photography and/or Video recording anywhere on school campus without permission of teachers (BYOD) or Administration.
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Using the device while out of class on a pass or in a restroom.
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Utilizing any text messaging and/or social networking to harass, tease, or participate in bullying activities or posting of school activities without prior permission.
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Other Expectations of Use or Misuse:
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Cell phones need to be shut down and put away immediately upon entering a classroom. If and where the cell phone is stored will be at the teacher’s discretion. This may include a central location.
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For the safety of each student and other students and staff, the use of the device’s ear buds or headphones will be strictly prohibited and enforced, as referenced in the Student Code of Conduct Section VII. A. [CF] paragraph 3.
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Teachers may give explicit permission for classroom use of electronic devices for educational purposes and under direct supervision of a staff member (BYOD Policy, with a “BYOD In Use” sign in window).
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Consequences for Failure to follow Cell Phone Policies and Procedures:
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Minor infractions, in the classroom, will be addressed following the Student Code of Conduct, which includes the “Classroom Infraction” process.
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Minor infractions, outside the classroom, will also be addressed by Administration, with infractions tracked by the Administration Office.
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Failure to turn over an electronic device, when directed, is considered Gross Insubordination as well as a violation of the electronic device policy and will result in immediate Out Of School Suspension per Student Code of Conduct.
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Any student utilizing a cell phone or device to harass, tease, ridicule, taunt, or any other activity that contributes to a verbal or physical confrontation may immediately lose cell phone privileges.
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All Hernando County School Board Policies regarding electronic devices will be followed. Please refer to the Student Code of Conduct for further information.
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Violations of this policy or the Student Code of Conduct, regarding cell phones, will lead to the following disciplinary actions:
1st Offense: Warning – document on Classroom Infraction Report Form. Teacher has option to direct student to put the device away, or, if necessary, may confiscate it until the end of the period. A student violating policy while out of the classroom will be sent to administration, where the infraction will be recorded in a log book.
2nd Offense: *Loss of device for the day. **Document on Classroom Infraction Report Form and turn device into administration. Parent/teacher contact will be made if possible and documented in a log book located in administration.
*Student can pick up at the end of the day.
**Teacher may submit Classroom Infraction Report Form with only two interventions noted (#3 is not required for electronic violations).
3rd Offense: Referral for Gross Insubordination
1 Day ISS
Parent contact & phone pick up
*Student’s electronic device will remain locked up until parent picks up device.
4th Offense: Referral for Gross Insubordination
3 Days ISS
Parent contact & phone pick up
Phone check in/check out for 5 days & during ISS
*Student’s electronic device will remain locked up until parent picks up device.
5th Offense: Referral for Gross Insubordination
5 Days ISS
Parent contact & phone pick up
Phone check in/check out for 10 days & during ISS
*Student’s electronic device will remain locked up until parent picks up device.
6th Offense: Referral for Gross Insubordination
10 Days ISS
Loss of device for remainder of the semester
Phone check in/check out daily
*Student’s electronic device will remain locked up until parent picks up device.
**If student receives a violation during this period, an ODR will be written for Gross Insubordination, with OSS as a consequence.
7th Offense: Referral for Gross Insubordination, 1 Day OSS
8th Offense: Referral for Gross Insubordination, 3 Days OSS
9th Offense: Referral for Gross Insubordination, 5 Days OSS
10th Offense: Referral for Gross Insubordination, 10 Days OSS