Dear Heatly Community,
For those who were unable to attend the Cell Phone Policy Informational Night, I’ve included some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below to provide clarification before the start of the school year.
Details
The “bell to bell, no cell” law is a state mandate requiring schools to prohibit the use of internet-enabled personal devices (PICDs), such as cell phones, during the entire school day—from the first bell to the last. This applies to both instructional and non-instructional times, including lunch and study halls. The goal is to improve student focus and reduce distractions.
- Grades 6–8: Students will store their cell phones in a designated cell phone locker, assigned by number, each morning upon arrival.
- Grades 3–5: Students will place their devices in a cell phone class pouch, which will be stored in their homeroom for the day.
This process ensures all devices are secured during the school day while still being kept safe in an assigned location.
Submitted Questions
Q: How will we be able to reach our students in the event of an emergency?
In the past, some families relied on direct communication from students during lockdowns. Moving forward, communication will be streamlined through ParentSquare Smart Alerts, which notify families immediately in the event of an emergency procedure. This is the quickest way to receive timely updates. Regular updates will also continue to be shared on our website, even if no new information is available..
Q: Do middle school students have to use the cell phone lockers, or can they just turn off their phones and keep them in their regular lockers?
Students in grades 6–8 must use the assigned cell phone lockers or leave their devices at home. Any student seen with a device during the school day will face the consequences outlined in the Code of Conduct.
Q: Will students be allowed to wear smart watches? Also, shouldn’t staff be held to the same expectations if students cannot use devices?
No, smart watches are not permitted. They are classified as PICDs in the Board’s policy and must be powered off or placed on airplane mode, then stored appropriately during the school day.
This policy specifically regulates student use of PICDs. However, faculty and staff are expected to model positive behavior by keeping their personal devices stored away during instructional time or while supervising students. Staff continue to have access to walkie-talkies, Google Chat, and email for professional communication.
Q: Since phones are personal property and not provided by the state, where does the authority come from to restrict their use during school hours?
As a public school district, we are required to follow state laws and regulations. The state has mandated that phones are prohibited from bell to bell, and we are responsible for enforcing this in our schools.
Q: What happens when a student does not comply with the policy?
The consequences are as follows:
- First Violation: Device is held in the office until the end of the day; parent/guardian notified.
- Second Violation: Parent/guardian must pick up the device.
- Further Violations: Loss of privilege to bring a device to school, along with additional consequences per the Code of Conduct.
This policy is designed to support student focus, safety, and learning while providing clear expectations and procedures. Thank you for your partnership as we implement these changes.
Stephanie Bouchey
Principal