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Cell Phone Procedures

 

At Gulf Shores Middle School, we recognize the importance of communication and collaboration in today's world. While we provide devices for students to be productive in the classroom, we also understand the need to establish guidelines to ensure a focused learning environment. To maintain a positive academic atmosphere and reduce unnecessary distractions, the school enforces the following cell phone and personal technology (including earbuds, headphones, smart watches, etc.) policy:

  1. Cell phones and all personal technology shall be TURNED OFF when entering the school campus.

  2. Cell phones and all personal technology shall be kept in a student's backpack and not in clothing pockets.

  3. Cell phones and all personal technology are not allowed to be used in classrooms, the library, common areas, or restrooms.

  4. Cell phones and all personal technology can be turned back on at the end of the school bell and used to communicate directly with parents or friends assisting in transportation.

  5. Cell phones and all personal technology are not allowed to be used during transition times or between classes.

  6. If a student needs to make an emergency call during the day, they must come to the office.

 

If students violate the school's cell phone and personal technology policy, the following consequences may occur:

  1. First Offense: The phone or technology device will be confiscated by a staff member. The student can retrieve their phone or device from the office after 3:00 pm. The student must review the device policy with an administrator prior to picking up the device. An office referral will be written for documentation.

  2. Second Offense: The student can retrieve their phone or technology device from the office after 3:00 pm, and parent notification will be made by office staff. An office referral will be written for documentation.

  3. Third Offense: A parent or guardian must pick up the phone or technology device in the office. The parent will be provided a copy of the policy upon pickup.

  4. Fourth Offense: One-day on-campus-school suspension (OCS) for repeated policy infractions. A parent or guardian must meet with an administrator prior to picking up the phone or technology device in the office.

  5. Fifth Offense: Two-day on-campus-school suspension (OCS) for repeated policy infractions. A parent or guardian must pick up the phone or technology device in the office.

  6. Sixth Offense: Out-of-school suspension for repeated policy infractions. A parent or guardian must pick up the phone or technology device in the office.

 

Additional Offenses: Each additional infraction will result in an out-of-school suspension. Students may be placed on a remedial discipline plan with a daily check-in/check-out expectation.

Note: Technology offenses are cumulative per student, not per device or type of device.

The school is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged cell phones and cannot assist in searching for lost devices.

The administration reserves the right to adjust these consequences on a case-by-case basis if needed. For example, extreme behaviors that break the law or engage in bullying or harassment of other students may result in suspension. Please be aware that this policy is subject to review and modification as necessary to reflect changing circumstances and technological advancements.