Family Information
CHHS Cell Phone/Headphones Policy
Policy Overview: Columbia Heights High School recognizes the importance of technology and the role it plays in students' lives. However, to maintain an effective learning environment, we have established guidelines for cell phone/headphones/earbuds. Students are permitted to use their cell phones and headphones/earbuds in designated areas and during non-instructional times, while use during instructional time is restricted.
Designated Areas for Cell Phone Use:
- Lunchroom
- Non-instructional time (e.g., between classes, before/after school)
Restricted Areas and Times:
- Classrooms, unless explicitly directed by the teacher for educational purposes.
Expectations:
- Hallways and Lunchroom:
- Students may use their cell phones and headphones/ear buds in the hallways during passing periods and lunchroom.
- Students are expected to use their phones responsibly and respectfully.
- Classrooms:
- Cell phones/earbuds/headphones must be powered off or silenced and put away during class time.
- Ear buds and headphones are not to be used unless the teacher gives permission for educational purposes.
- Students may use their phones during non-instructional times within the classroom if permitted by the teacher.
- Students may not take cell phones into the halls or restrooms during class time.
Consequences for Non-Compliance:
- First Offense:
- Verbal warning from the teacher.
- The student will be asked to put away their phone or headphones.
- Second Offense:
- The teacher will take the cell phone or headphones for the remainder of the class period.
- The incident will be logged, and parents will be notified.
- If a student refuses to relinquish the cell phone and/or headphones/earbuds, they will be sent to their grade level administrator and parents/guardians can pick up the devices after school.
- Third Offense:
- The cell phone or headphones will be confiscated and turned in to the main office.
- A parent or guardian will need to pick up the device from the office.
- Fourth and Subsequent Offenses:
- The student will lose the privilege of bringing their cell phone or headphones to school for a specified period (determined by administration).
- A parent-teacher-administrator conference will be required.
- Additional disciplinary actions may be taken, including suspension.
Note:
- In case of emergencies, parents/guardians can contact the main office, and messages will be relayed to students promptly.
- Students are encouraged to use their devices responsibly and to be aware of the impact their use can have on the learning environment.
By following these guidelines, Columbia Heights High School aims to balance the benefits of technology with the need for an effective and focused learning environment. We appreciate the cooperation of students and parents/guardians in upholding this policy.
Cell Phone Policy can also be found in the Student Rights & Responsibilities Handbook (pages 33-34)