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Updated Personal Electronic Device Policy

July 2024


Overview
Implementing an updated cell phone policy in schools is essential to foster an environment conducive to student engagement, learning, and overall success. In today's digital age, cell phones present a significant distraction, disrupting the learning process and reducing students' attention spans. Cell phones will be allowed only during passing periods outside of buildings, during nutritional breaks, and lunch periods. This allows students to focus more intently on their studies. This policy also promotes face-to-face interactions and collaboration among students, which are critical for developing social skills and teamwork. Furthermore, reducing cell phone dependence helps mitigate issues such as cyberbullying and the negative impact of social media on students' mental health. Overall, this cell phone policy supports a more focused, interactive, and healthy educational environment, essential for students' academic and personal growth.

Cell Phone and Other Electronic Devices
Personal electronic devices (“PEDs”), including but not limited to, cell phones, smartphones, smartwatches, iPod, MP3 players, AirPods, earbuds, cameras, etc. are permitted to be brought to school; however, PEDs MAY NOT BE DISPLAYED OR USED ON CAMPUS DURING INSTRUCTIONAL TIME. If a smartwatch is being used other than to know the time, the smartwatch will be confiscated.  Instructional time is the bell to bell for each class period. This applies to all students regardless of class schedule. All PEDS must be turned off during Instructional Time.  If PEDs are used, displayed, turned on, earbuds/earphones visible whether it be around the neck or hanging from the ears, the PED will be confiscated, and a parent or person authorized on contact list will be required to pick the PED up Monday through Thursday from 7:45 am to 4:15 pm at the front office Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, the pick up time will be 7:00 am to 3:15 pm. 
Bell Schedule 

Disciplinary Action

  • 1st Offense - PED is confiscated and submitted to the front office, and it will be held until the student’s parent or authorized person on the emergency contact list can pick it up from school. 
  • 2nd Offense - PED is confiscated and submitted to the front office, and it will be held until the student’s parent or authorized person on the emergency contact list can pick it up from school. 
  • 3rd Offense - PED is confiscated and submitted to the front office, and it will be held until the student’s parent or authorized person on the emergency contact list can pick it up from school, and disciplinary consequences may be assigned to the student. This could result in the student having to check their PED at the front desk each day. 

Other Notes of Interest 
Personal Electronic devices may be used when a licensed physician determines it is necessary for 
the student’s health or well-being. Or, when it is required in a student's IEP or Section 504 plan. 

Should parents or guardians need to communicate with students, they should contact the school office. When students need to communicate with parents or guardians, students can always request the use of a school phone. 

Misuse of personal electronic devices on or near school property, in school vehicles, and buses, at school-sponsored activities may result in disciplinary action. 

Guajome Park Academy is not responsible for technology including computers, cell phones, smartphones, airpods, etc. or other electronic signaling devices, if such devices are damaged, lost or stolen.