Use of Personal Technology Policy Revision Adopted
To assist our students in establishing healthy boundaries and a balance of in-person and digital connections, the Worcester Central School District has adopted a revised policy for use of personal technology, including cell phones, during the school day. Over the last few Board meetings, WCSD has reviewed cell phone survey data and comments from students, staff, and parents, as well as the current WCSD Use of Personal Technology Policy. Taking into consideration the feedback submitted from the surveys, the revised Use of Personal Technology Policy was adopted at the December Board of Education meeting. The new policy will be in effect as we return on January 6th. The full policy can be viewed here.
The revisions will include:
- Students will be required to turn off all personal electronic devices not issued by the Worcester Central School District by the start of 1st Period each day.
- Those devices need to be placed in their assigned locker, backpack, purse, or designated classroom area.
- All personal electronic devices must remain out of view for the duration of the school day until the final bell at 2:58 p.m.
- Families and students are encouraged to communicate through the main office during the school day.
- Students with individualized education plans (IEPs), 504 Plans, or documentation from a medical practitioner that specifically requires the use of an electronic device for a medical purpose may do so as specified.
- If a student is seen by a staff member with a personal electronic device the following action and consequence will occur:
Offense | Action Taken | Consequences |
1st Offense | Personal electronic device placed in the Main Office and returned to the student at the end of the day
| Parent Notification |
2nd Offense | Personal electronic device placed in the Main Office and returned to the parent at the end of the day
| One day of lunch detention Parent Conference with Administration |
3rd Offense | Personal electronic device placed in the Main Office and returned to the parent at the end of the day
| One day of after school detention Parent Conference with Administration |
More than 3 offenses | Personal electronic device placed in the Main Office and returned to the parent at the end of the day | Consequences will be determined by the principal in a progressive nature. This may require surrendering their device to the office and/or suspension.
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Students who refuse to surrender their device to a staff member will be considered insubordinate and will receive consequences according to the Code of Conduct. |