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[[TOC]] Cell Phone Policy Discussion
 * Let's share some thoughts on how we can effectively deal with cell phone disruptions in our classrooms. What do you do that works? Please add your comments and suggestions.**


 * I usually just take the phone away and put it on my desk. I am going to start having students place a "caught" phone on my desk, so I'm not accused of breaking the phone. Amy

 Knowing that this kind of technology isn't going away, its important that we educate users on acceptable use. For example: When in at the movies, we know to turn off the phone or ringer.

When driving a car, you pull over at a safe location to text or talk on your phone.

When in class, no calls or texting is allowed without teacher permission.

Just because your phone rings, doesn't mean you have to answer right now. Voicemail and text messages will still be there when the time is right. Chip

I have been just been having them put them away and that usually works. I like the idea of a container at the front of the classroom. Steff

Is it safe to say that the issue here is not electronic gear itself, but using this stuff at the appropriate time, and that the bigger issue is insuboardation, that may arise concerning the improper use of the stuff. Chip

[[TOC]] Cell Phone Rules Proposal

5/11/09 Tim
Electronic devices (cellphones, iPods, digital cameras, laptops, etc.) may be used by students ONLY during passing time and before 7:40 AM and after 2:20 PM, unless permission is given by staff. Electronic devices may not be used in classrooms, locker rooms, learning centers, offices or disciplinary rooms. If an electronic device is confiscated, staff will take every reasonable precaution with the device. The school is not responsible for any damaged or stolen property if the device is confiscated by the school. If a student is concerned with the safety of their electronic devices they should not bring the device to school in order to avoid potential risk of damage or loss.

You can: Use electronic devices during passing time, before 7:40 and after 2:20 and during lunch time. Use of electronic device as an educational tool if permission is given by teacher.

You cannot: Leave class to use electronic devices in the hallways or restrooms. Use an electronic device to threaten or harass others.

Consequences Level 1: The student will surrender the device and retrieve it at the end of class. Level 2: The student will surrender the device and it will be held in the AP office till the end of the day. The parent or guardian will be contacted that explained the consequences for a third offense. Level 3: The student will surrender the device and it will be held in the AP office. The device will only be returned to the student after a meeting with the parent/guardian. Further Infractions: Repeated violations will be treated as insubordination. Consequences may include detention, suspension, etc. Posted Yesterday 9:43 pm - [[TOC]] === = Posted by Tim Below are some actions you can take as a teacher to prevent cell phone use in class.
 * Tip Sheet for Teachers**

1) Walk around the room when possible to better monitor cell phone use.

2) When confiscating a phone, provide students with the option of giving you their phone battery if they are worried about privacy issues.

3) Explain cell phone rules every couple weeks as a reminder if needed.

4) Ask student to place their cell phone in a container in the room before going to the rest room to avoid phone usage in the halls.

5) Ask students to place their phones on their desk in plain sight at the beginning of class.

6) Contact the parents of students using phones in class and perhaps suggest they keep the phone from their child before and after school.

7) Urge students to tell you that they are waiting for an emergency phone call/text instead of trying to hide it.

8) Model proper cell phone use by not using phone during class.

9) Teach students to and provide opportunities for students to use their phones as educational tools. (stop watch, calculator, calendar, etc.)

10) If a student frequently violates cell phones rules require the parent to come pick it up.

11) Include electronic device policy in expectations.

