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Cell Phone Policy

Cell Phone Policy 

Kennedy Middle School Student Cell Phone and Technology Policy 

Objective:
The following policy is designed to promote a distraction-free learning environment and ensure the safety and security of all students during instructional time. It mandates that all cell phones must be turned off or on silent, and remain stored away.

Policy Guidelines:

1. Technology Usage (including headphones and earbuds):

  • All cell phones and other personal electronic devices must be turned off or on silent, and remain stored away with the exception of lunch time. 

  • Use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices (smart watches etc) is prohibited in classrooms. Students will have access to APS Chromebooks as needed during class for instructional purposes.
  • Headphones or earbuds should be removed and placed in backpacks to help students focus on learning. Teachers may allow students to use their headphones/earbuds for instructional purposes on Chromebooks.
  • Students may only make and receive calls from the front office.  In case of an emergency, students are encouraged to inform their teacher or an adult staff member who will provide necessary assistance (i.e. call from the main office or classroom phone)
  • Cell phones may be used during lunch in common areas, as long as students have headphones/earbuds when listening to music. Video chats, recording, and taking pictures is not allowed. 
  • Chromebooks are provided to each student by Albuquerque Public Schools. These devices should only be used for classroom learning and homework. Admin, Dean and teachers will regularly check GoGuardian to ensure proper use of Chromebooks.

2. Backpack Placement:

  • Backpacks should be organized in a manner that avoids blocking walkways or causing potential hazards.
  • Students should ensure that their backpacks are securely closed to prevent any items from falling out or causing disruptions.
  • If a student is caught using or possessing drugs or weapons, student’s backpack privileges may be revoked. This could also lead to required daily check-ins with the front office before going to class each day.

3. Staff Responsibility/Classroom Management:

  • Teachers will remind students at the beginning of each class to keep their cell phones off and have them remain in their backpacks. 
  • The policy will be enforced during the entire school day with the exception of lunch. Teachers will enforce the policy by monitoring compliance and addressing any violations promptly and appropriately.
  • It is a professional expectation that all teachers will uphold the Technology and Backpack Policy in their classrooms and throughout the school environment.
  • The staff member who confiscates a student’s cell phone will contact home to communicate about the incident and log contact in Synergy

4. Storage and Safety:

  • Students are responsible for the security and safety of their cell phones and backpacks.
  • The school will not be liable for any loss, theft, or damage to cell phones or other personal belongings.
  • It is recommended that students avoid bringing valuable items to school and keep their backpacks zipped up and secure when necessary.

5. Consequences for Non-Compliance:

  • Students who fail to comply with the cell phone and backpack policy may face the following consequences, based on the school's disciplinary procedures:
    • Confiscation of the cell phone or other electronic devices, which will follow Kennedy’s cell phone policy and will be held in the front office: 
      • 1st Offense: Student may collect cell phone from office at the end of the day
      • 2nd Offense: Parent/Guardian pick up at the end of that same day
      • 3rd Offense: Parent/Guardian pick up at the end of that week
      • 4th Offense: Parent/Guardian pick up at the end of the semester.
  • Consequences restart at the beginning of a new semester.

6. Parent/Guardian Cooperation:

  • Parents/guardians are expected to support and reinforce the cell phone and technology policy.
  • They should communicate with their child about the importance of following the policy to maintain a focused and productive learning environment.
  • Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact the school administration if they have any concerns or questions regarding the policy.
  • Parents/guardians will review the cell phone policy with administration upon picking up their student’s device.

7. Policy Review:

  • This policy will be periodically reviewed by the school administration and may be revised as needed to reflect changing circumstances and technological advancements.