When is my child(ren) allowed to have their personal communication devices at school?

While students may possess PCDs in school, on school property, during after school activities (e.g., extra-curricular activities) and at school-related functions, they must be powered completely off (i.e., not just placed into vibrate or silent mode) and stored out of sight during school hours. Students may use personal computers to support their required academic work during the school day with the prior approval of their assigned teacher or principal.
Students may use PCDs while riding to and from school on a school bus or other Board-provided vehicles or on a school bus or Board-provided vehicle during school‑sponsored activities, at the discretion of the bus driver, classroom teacher, or sponsor/advisor/coach. Distracting behavior that creates an unsafe environment will not be tolerated.

How do I reach my child(ren) in case of a school emergency?

The district and/or school of your child(ren) will deliver important information through multiple platforms of communication, including email, text, phone calls, and social media.

How do I reach my child(ren) in case of a family or personal emergency?

You may contact the school office and building administration or administrative assistants will ensure your child receives the message and is able to connect with you.

How do I contact my child(ren) for changes in after school transportation, schedules, or forgotten items?

You may contact the school office and building administration or administrative assistants will ensure your child receives the message about the after school changes.

How can my child(ren) contact a parent/guardian during the school day?

Students may contact a parent/guardian under the discretion of a classroom teacher, coach, or administrator.

How can I support my student's digital wellness at home and school?

Please refer to this think from Common Sense Media for information on supporting your child's digital wellness.

Does the policy differ by grade level or building?

For grades K-8, cell phones and personal communication devices such as smartwatches must be turned off and stored during school hours. This includes during the lunch hour and between classes.
Reference the bullet points below for grades 9-12:
Instructional Time: Cell phones must not be visible during any instructional time.
Technology Access: Each classroom will be equipped with technology for accessing Canvas and online platforms. Students may bring their own computers for educational purposes only.
Communication: In case students need to communicate with families, the office phone will be available.
Lunch Periods: Students may check their phones during designated lunch periods for the first semester only. Beginning January 2025, phones must remain off and out of sight during regular school hours.

My child's medical needs require them to have a personal communication device.

Reference the bullet points below for exemptions to the policy:
This policy does not prohibit a student from using a cell phone for purposes documented in their individualized education program (IEP) or a plan under section 504 of the "Rehabilitation Act of 1973," 29 U.S.C. 794.
A student may use a cell phone to monitor or address a documented health concern.

I have concerns about how my child(ren) will access curriculum and completing assignments through technology.

Each classroom will be equipped with technology for accessing Canvas and online platforms. Students may use personal computers to support their required academic work during the school day with the prior approval of their assigned teacher or principal.

Is my child allowed to wear a watch during the school day?

Students are permitted to wear watches as long as time-telling devices, not communication devices.

Jonathan Alder Local Schools

Personal Communication Devices - Policy Update

FAMILY COMMUNICATION LETTER

INFORMATIONAL POLICY FLYER

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS