DCPS Cell Phone Policy
Parents, please be advised that due to the increased disruption of the school
day from cell phone usage that the Board of Education has adopted a new
discipline policy addressing the situation. As a result of this new policy, the
following consequences shall be in place for infractions:
First Offense:
· Phone confiscated
· Detention issued to student
· Parent contacted and pick-up phone
· Agreement Sheet signed by parent and student
Second Offense:
· Cell phone confiscated and NOT returned to the student until the end of the semester. In addition, the cell phone will not be made available to retrieve any information until returned.
While cell phones have many positive features – mainly communication between parent and child, they have become increasingly used in a disruptive manner (cheating, electronic harassment, etc.). Phone thefts have also become more common. Please review this new policy with your child to avoid any application of these new penalties.
Telecommunication Devices
Possession and Use
While on school property or while attending school-sponsored or school-related activities, whether on or off school property, students shall be permitted to possess and use personal telecommunications devices as defined by law,1 and other related electronic devices, provided they observe the following conditions:
1. Devices shall not be used in a manner that disrupts the educational process, including, but not limited to, posing a threat to academic integrity or violating confidentiality or privacy rights of another individual. Unless an emergency situation exists that involves imminent physical danger or a certified employee authorizes the student to do otherwise, devices shall be turned on and operated only before and after the regular school day.
When students violate this prohibition, they shall be subject to disciplinary action, including losing the privilege of bringing the device onto school property. In addition, an administrator may confiscate the device, which shall only be returned to the student’s parent/guardian.
2. Students are responsible for keeping up with devices they bring to school. The District shall not be responsible for loss, theft, or destruction of devices brought onto school property.
3. Students shall comply with any additional rules developed by the school concerning appropriate use of telecommunication or other electronic devices.
4. Students shall not utilize a telecommunication or similar electronic device in a manner that would violate the District’s Acceptable Use policy or procedures or its Code of Acceptable Behavior and Discipline.
Notice of Policy
Notice of this policy and penalties for violating it shall be published annually in the District’s Code of Acceptable Behavior and Discipline.
Reference:
1KRS 158.165
08.2323
09.426
09.438
Order #: 56
Adopted/Amended: 08/19/2004