503.9 Student Use of Personal Electronic Devices

In order to promote the best educational experience, students should feel connected to their educational environment and to others in the school community. Building meaningful connections can occur in a variety of ways. Technology has advanced peoples' ability to connect with one another across a variety of virtual platforms, and when used appropriately, adds value to the learning environment. However, it is vital to the developmental health and growth of students that the district provides opportunities for students to connect with peers and other members of their school community in-person whenever possible. In-person learning and interactions teach vital life and social skills that students will need for their continued success in the community.

For this reason, student use of personal electronic devices during instructional time is prohibited. Students have access to district-owned electronic devices as appropriate for the instructional needs of the learning environment and authorized by the classroom teacher. Personal electronic devices means any device that is capable of electronically communicating, sending, receiving, storing, recording, reproducing and/or displaying information and data. Personal electronic devices that have been specifically authorized under a current individual education plan (IEP), a Section 504 plan, or an Individual Health Plan (IHP) are exempt from this policy. For purposes of this policy, instructional time is defined as the time from the beginning of class bell through the end of class bell and includes study halls and recess periods. Lunch and passing times are excluded and may be restricted by the principal on an individual basis.

Students who choose to use personal electronic devices outside instructional time but while on school property, at school-sponsored events, or in a manner that may impact the educational environment must use these devices in accordance with all applicable laws and board policies. Students who violate this policy may face disciplinary consequences. The Superintendent, in conjunction with building level administration, will develop administrative regulations in accordance with this policy.

Approved: 9-18-24 Reviewed: Revised:6-16-25

awoods@gt.rati… Tue, 09/17/2024 - 12:02

503.9R1 Student Use of Personal Electronic Devices

The district is committed to providing an inclusive educational environment for students and families. It is valuable for students' educational experience for families to engage in and support their students' educational experience. As part of this commitment, the district will take steps to create opportunities for students to engage in peer-to-peer activities, and ensure that student use of personal electronic devices is properly limited during the school day.

Every district staff member is empowered to assist in the enforcement of this policy and regulation as appropriate. To avoid distraction during instructional time, personal electronic devices are not permitted. Students may store their personal electronic devices in their backpacks, unless otherwise instructed. Staff members may establish classroom rules or protocols for placement of personal electronic devices during instructional times consistent with this regulation. If a student is observed with a personal electronic device on their person during instructional time, the employee who observed the student behavior shall notify building administration, who shall require the student to turn in the device for safekeeping until the end of the school day or until a parent retrieves the device. The device will be secured in the building's front office. The district, however, is not responsible for the loss, theft, or destruction of personal electronic devices brought onto school, or district property, or while the student is attending district or school-sponsored events.

For a student's first violation of this policy, the student may pick up the device at the end of the school day and the student's parent/guardian will be notified. For subsequent violations of this policy, the device will be released to the student's parent/guardian following a meeting with the student and the student's parent/guardian to create a plan to avoid further violations. If a student in violation of this policy refuses to turn over their device, they may be suspended. Repeated violations of this policy may result in additional disciplinary consequences for students in accordance with board policy.

awoods@gt.rati… Tue, 09/17/2024 - 12:03