Telecommunications Policy

Please see below for information regarding R.C. Hinsdale's Cell Phone and Electronic Use Policy: 
• Student use of cell phones. tablets, watches, other SMART devices and/or listening devices (earbuds. headphones, etc:} during instructional time is prohibited. 
Permitted/Not-permitted Times: 
• Cell phones, smart devices, and headphones are not permitted in classes at any time. During Instructional class time, these devices are not permitted in the hallways, restrooms, cafeteria, or other common areas. 

• During permitted times, students are still subject to policies outlined in the signed district AUP agreement. 

• Devices may be permitted during class incentives and/or reward days. 

• Devices will be permitted from 8:00-8:30 AM or 3:30-4:00 for students in AM arrival and PM dismissal with staff approval. 

•Students in extracurricular activities, outside the school day, are permitted to use electronic devices pending staff/sponsor approval. 

• R. C. Hinsdale and its staff are not responsible for loss, broken or stolen personal devices brought onto school property. 

Procedure/Expectations for School Day: 
All prohibited devices shall be turned off and stored out of sight. Devices should not be visible during class time. Any distraction caused by a prohibited device (ringing, buzzing, notifications, etc) could be considered a violation. 

Parent/Student Contact During the School Day: 
Parents should refrain from contacting students during instructional class time. In the event of an emergency, parents will be notified by front office staff via the Bright Arrow messaging system. If deemed necessary, students can use the school phones to contact a parent/guardian. Parents can also email/message classroom teachers directly for communication. 

Procedures for Violations: 
Students that violate the approved policy will be subjected to disciplinary consequences that are outlined in this policy and in accordance with the KCSD Code of Conduct. Violations also include a student's refusal to relinquish their device when requested by a school staff member. Consequences may include, but not limited to: 
• Parent/Student Conferences 

• Behavior Slip, Detention or In-School Suspension 

• Devices could be turned in to school staff and/or Administration 

Exceptions: 
• Devices needed for medical monitoring (i.e. blood sugar monitors). 

• Students who have technology-based accommodations on an IEP or 504 plan will be permitted to access defined devices related to their IEP/504 accommodations.