4318 Use of Wireless Communication Devices

Students are permitted to possess wireless communication devices on school property so long as the devices are not turned on, used, or displayed during instructional time or as otherwise directed by school rules or school personnel. Teachers may authorize individual students to use the devices for instructional purposes, provided that they supervise the students during such use, or in the event of an emergency.

Additionally, individual students may use wireless communication devices as required by the student’s Individualized Education Program or Section 504 plan or to manage the student’s health care in accordance with a documented medical condition.

3. Authorized Use During Non-Instructional Time

Although use of wireless communication devices is generally permitted during non-instructional time and before and after school, the principal may establish additional limitations on the use, possession, or display of such devices consistent with this policy.  Use of wireless communication devices may be prohibited on school buses when noise from such devices interferes with the safe operation of the buses.  Audio should be played only with headphones or earbuds and at a reasonable volume so as not to disturb other students or distract the driver. Students should still be able to hear directions from the driver or district staff while using headphones or earbuds.

4. Consequences

School employees may immediately confiscate any wireless communication devices that are on, used, or displayed in violation of this policy. In general, the confiscated device will be returned to the student at the end of the school day. However, an administrator may require a student’s parent to recover a confiscated device if the student has repeatedly violated this policy.

The disciplinary consequences for violations of this policy shall be consistent with Section D of policy 4300, Student Behavior Policies. The superintendent or designee shall list in the Code of Student Conduct the specific range of consequences that may be imposed on a student for violations of this policy.

The following factors should be considered when determining appropriate consequences:  whether the wireless communication device was used (1) to reproduce images of tests, obtain unauthorized access to school information or assist students in any aspect of their instructional program in a manner that violates any school board policy, administrative regulation, or school rule; (2) to bully or harass other students; (3) to send illicit text messages; (4) to take and/or send illicit photographs; or (5) in any other manner that would make more severe disciplinary consequences appropriate.

5. Search of Wireless Communication Devices

In accordance with policy 4342, Investigations, a student’s wireless communication device and its contents, including, but not limited to, text messages and digital photos, may be searched whenever a school official has reason to believe the search will provide evidence a law, board policy, the Code of Student Conduct, or a school rule is being violated. School officials are encouraged to communicate with the student’s parent or guardian before searching a student’s electronic device. The scope of such searches must be reasonably related to the objectives of the search and not excessively intrusive in light of the nature of the suspected infraction.

6. Liability

Students are personally responsible for the security of their wireless communication devices. Wilkes County Schools is not responsible for the theft, loss, or damage of a personal wireless communication device.