Sigsbee Charter School: Personally Owned Technology Policy

The use of cell phones and other electronic devices is a common means of communicating between parent and child. However, student use of these devices on SCS premises are regulated to protect students, staff, and the SCS learning environment. 

Students may not use their cell phones and/or electronic devices at any time during school hours. If a student chooses to bring these devices to SCS, they must be powered off and remain hidden at all times during the school day.  All electronics should be kept in backpacks or lockers for the entire school day.  Mobile devices are not allowed in the restrooms.

The proper way for parents to contact their child during the school day is by calling the school office.  Parents should refrain from attempting to contact their children directly via electronic devices.   

If cell phones, headphones, watches, or other electronic devices ring, vibrate, or are used during school hours, students will be asked to secure these devices in a SCS-provided secured case until the end of the school day.  This action will be reported to the SCS administrative office for further code of conduct consideration.  

If electronic devices are used on campus in one of the following ways, more extreme disciplinary measures may occur:  

● Connect a personal device to the SCS wireless or physical network

● Answer an incoming message, email, or phone call

● Take any picture or video 

● Upload any picture or video taken in any class to any social media site or website

● Text or share any picture or video taken in class to any person, including themselves

● Take any picture, video or text of any class assignments or assessments 

Students bringing cellular telephones or electronic devices to school do so at their own risk. Sigsbee Charter School will not assume any liability for any lost, stolen, or damaged cellular phone and/or any other electronic devices in a student’s possession. No teacher will ask or allow a personal electronic device to be loaned to or given to another student during class. A staff member will hold no phone or electronic device for a student while on campus; it must be held by the owner, locked in a personal locker, or the device will be placed in a central location in each classroom (parking space). If a staff member confiscates a device, it will be held in the office until a parent or guardian comes to retrieve it. Devices are subject to inspection of call logs and media at the discretion of the Principal, School Resource Officer (SRO), or designee, to verify improper use.

Voice Assistant Devices

Voice assistant devices, such as Google Home and Amazon Echo, are prohibited in the classroom or school setting. These devices are designed for home use and introduce unnecessary risks into the classroom. These devices may allow third parties to remotely listen via the device, record conversations, and raise concerns regarding privacy and confidentiality.

Devices, Games From Home

Toys, games, playing cards, electronic devices, and other non-academic items or games are only allowed with specific permission from a staff member (for example, clubs or special events). All usage of these items should be educationally focused and directed by a staff member. Any items found without permission will be confiscated and made available to parents for direct pickup. Items not picked up within five (5) school days may be discarded. The Organization shall not be held liable for any lost or stolen items confiscated by the School.

Due to the evolving nature of emerging technologies, additional rules and regulations may be added throughout the school year.