Has your district evaluated its policy on cell phone use lately? If your school district is using NJSBA’s file code system, the best place to file this policy is under telephone use, staff/students at file code 3515.1. This policy was sometimes filed under weapons and dangerous instruments (file code 5131.7), due to an association with the older technology of beepers, which had been associated with illegal activities.

When evaluating your policy on cell phones, districts should also check their student handbooks and Web sites to avoid inconsistencies. Sample policy language that could be used in a district handbook is: “Leave expensive electronic games and electronic equipment at home, or out-of-sight (lockers) and turned off during the instructional day. If stolen, it is the student’s responsibility and the school cannot be liable. Cell phones and other electronic devices shall not be used in a manner that (a) disrupts the educational process, (b) undermines academic integrity, or (c) violates confidentiality or privacy rights of another individual.”

Additional policy samples on cell phone use are available from NJSBA by contacting LynDee Lalumiere at 1-888-886-5722, extension 5222.