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Cell Phone Appropriate Use Policy

 

Purpose: 

The presence of communication devices in schools has led to increased distractions, reduced focus on learning, and diminished face-to-face interactions. To create a positive, academically enriching environment, Bradley Central High School, Walker Valley High School, and the PIE Innovation Center are implementing guidelines prohibiting the use of communication devices during school hours. This aims to: 

  • Minimize disruptions during instructional time. 
  • Encourage meaningful social engagement among students. 
  • Improve overall student focus and participation in learning. 
  • Reduce behavioral issues linked to excessive phone use. 
 

School administrators and teachers will define and direct the appropriate use of cell phones and other personal communication devices (such as cell phones, tablets, and earbuds) on school grounds. Neither Bradley County Schools nor its employees shall be responsible for the loss, damage, or theft of personal communication or electronic devices.

 

General Rules:

  • Wireless devices (cell phones, tablets, earbuds, etc.) cannot be visible in a student’s possession at any point during the school day (8:15 - 3:30). 
  • Student devices must be silenced,  and stored out of sight or placed in a designated area as determined by the teacher (e.g., backpack, pocket chart, or boxes) during the school day.
  • Wireless devices are not allowed in dressing rooms or testing areas at any time.
  • Wireless communication devices do not include school-issued devices being used for academic purposes.
 

Exceptions: 

  • Emergencies as determined by the school staff.
  • When authorized by the teacher for instructional purposes while adhering to school procedures;
  • To manage the student's health, as documented in the student's individual healthcare plan;
  • When the possession or use is required by the student's individual education program, 504 plan, or individual learning plan, or
  • When the device is being used by a student with a disability for the operation of assistive technology to increase, maintain, or improve the student's functional capabilities.
 

Consequences for violating cellphone expectations:

  • 1st - The teacher gives the phone/device to the administration; the administration then calls the parent, and keeps the phone until the end of the day; Referral into Synergy
  • 2nd - The teacher gives the phone/device to the administration, who then calls the parent. The phone is held for seven (7) calendar days, and the parent must pick it up. Referral in Synergy. 
  • 3rd - The phone/device is held for fifteen (15) calendar days; Referral in Synergy.  *The student loses the privilege to bring any wireless device on school property. 
  • If a student refuses to return their phone/device, an additional referral will be submitted for Defiance/Disrespect, which will follow the disciplinary steps.
 

The BCS Board policy 6.302 contains information to ensure the due process rights of the students who are alleged to have violated school policy. Board Policy states, “ Before school authorities administer disciplinary measures, reasonable inquiry shall be made to determine the truth of what happened. The nature of this inquiry will vary in degree with the seriousness of the offense and the consequence. However, for minor offenses where the classroom teacher takes corrective measures, no formal procedure is required.”

 

Note: In the event of an emergency, parents will be notified through school-wide communication.  Bradley County Schools will not be responsible for the loss, damage, or theft of cell phones or other electronic devices used for communication purposes. 


Last Updated 08/05/2025.