Cell Phone Policy

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2024-25 ERT Cell Phone Policy

 

As a complement to the SFUSD Board Policy on Mobile Communication Devices (shared below), ER Taylor Elementary has its own policy on cell phone usage for students at school.  

ER Taylor Teachers and Staff recognize that cell phones, for students who possess them, are a safety and communication tool for families. ER Taylor is committed to upholding the SFUSD Board Policy on mobile communication devices while maintaining a safe school environment for all students, free from the distractions of cell phones.

ER Taylor Cell Phone policy

  • Students shall not use cell phones without permission on campus, at any time.
  • All student cell phones shall be turned off and must be kept in backpacks at all times, or turned into their teacher for safe keeping. 
  • If a student needs to use their phone for any of the 4 reasons listed in SFUSD Board Policy 5131.8, they must get permission from an ER Taylor staff member first.
  • At no time is it appropriate for students to take or watch videos on smartphones. 
  • If a student uses a cell phone without permission in any area of the school, any ER Taylor staff member should confiscate the phone, and turn it into the student’s teacher, or an Administrator. 
  • The following progressive discipline steps will be taken with students if they do not comply with the ER Taylor Cell Phone policy:
    • 1st Classroom Offense: Teacher will hold cell phone until end-of-day.
    • 2nd Classroom Offense: Teacher will hold the cell phone and call parent to pick-up the cell phone from them directly. 
    • 3rd Classroom Offense: Teacher will turn in the cell phone to an Admin, and Admin will  meet with family to establish an individualized appropriate use contract.
  • ER Taylor Administrators retain the right to have students turn in their cell phones as part of daily use contract with families. 

 

SFUSD Board Policy 5131.8 - Mobile Communication Devices 

Students may possess cell phones, smart watches, pagers, or other mobile communication devices on campus as long as the device is utilized in accordance with law, this Board Policy and any rules that individual school sites may impose.  

All mobile communication devices shall be turned off and put away during instructional time, including during passing periods. 

However, a student shall not be prohibited from possessing or using a mobile communication device under any of the following circumstances:  (CA Education Code 48901.5, 48901.7)

  • 1) In the case of an emergency, or in response to a perceived threat of danger.  Such use shall not inhibit the ability of school District employees to effectively communicate instructions for the safety of students, or be disruptive or endanger the safety of others.
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  • 2) When a teacher or administrator grants permission to the student to possess or use a mobile communication device to enhance classroom instruction.  In this circumstance, the device may only be used within the parameters provided by the teacher, for the purpose and time period identified by the teacher.
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  • 3) When a licensed physician or surgeon determines that the possession or use is necessary for the student's health and the use is limited to purposes related to the health of the student.
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  • 4) When the possession or use is required by the student's individualized education program. 

Students may not use mobile communication devices at school or school sponsored activities to take pictures, film or video of students or school staff (including teachers, administrators or staff) without the prior written consent of the student or staff person.

Smartphones and other mobile communication devices shall not be used in any manner which infringes on the privacy rights of any other person.  Any use that disrupts the educational process or school programs or activities is prohibited.  Any use that violates the SFUSD rules, policies or regulations (including the SFUSD Acceptable Use Agreement), federal or state law is prohibited, including but not limited to cyberbullying, sexual harassment, threats, or cheating on tests or assignments.  

Board Policy 5131.8 - Violation of Use Guidelines

When a student uses a mobile communication device in an unauthorized manner, the student may be disciplined and a District employee may confiscate the device; or may require the parent to come to school to recover the device.  It will be left to the discretion of the staff member to determine the appropriate response depending on the particular circumstances.  A student’s right to carry such devices may be revoked for a serious or repeated violation of these guidelines except where deemed medically necessary.  The employee shall store the device securely until it is returned to the student or parent/guardian or turned over to the principal or designee, as appropriate. 

A student may also be subject to discipline, in accordance with law, Board policy, or administrative regulation, for off-campus use of a mobile communication device which poses a threat or danger to the safety of students, staff, or District property or substantially disrupts school activities.

The District will not be responsible for a student's mobile communication device which is brought on campus or to a school activity and is lost, stolen, or damaged.