Student Handbook

Personal Electronic Device Policy

Students are allowed to bring personal cell phones/smartphones/smartwatches to school. These devices may not be used for personal communication (calls, texting, messaging, emails, etc.) during the day. Devices may not be used in the classrooms, hallways, restrooms, or commons areas from when the student enters the building until the student leaves the building. Devices must be turned off and stored in the student’s locker. Students may not use their devices in the hallways while walking to dismissal areas in the afternoon.

This policy applies to any electronic device that may be used for personal communication. The policy also includes the use of headphones/earbuds/air pods/other similar devices unless they are being used with the Chromebook for academic purposes approved by the teacher.

It is the direct responsibility of any student bringing a device to school to use it appropriately and secure and safeguard it. Students should never let another student use or borrow their personal device. Students are not allowed to use their devices to take photographs or videos AT ANY TIME while on school property or school-sponsored transportation (including attendance at afterschool or extra-curricular activities).

Bennett’s Mill Middle School is not responsible for any devices that are lost, stolen, or broken at school or during school-sponsored events.

Students are not permitted to bring personal computers, laptops, or tablets to school.

Consequences for Violations

Consequences for students found to be using or in possession of cell phones and other electronic devices during school:

• First Offense: 2 ISS lunch detentions. The device is confiscated; must be picked up by a parent.
• Second Offense: 1 day of ISS. The device is confiscated; must be picked up by a parent.
• Third Offense: 3 days of ISS (Insubordination): Device confiscated; must be picked up by a parent.
• Fourth Offense: 1 day of OSS: Device confiscated; must be picked up by a parent. At this point, the student will be prohibited from bringing any device to school for the remainder of the school year.

Parent Reminder

Please do not call or text your student during school hours. Also, please do not encourage your student to call or text you during school hours. These are violations of the policy as well as a disruption of the learning environment, and your child could face disciplinary action. If you need to leave a message or contact them in case of an emergency, you may call the front office at (770) 716-3982.