Pike County JVSD Cell Phone Policy Notification
Dear Pike County JVSD Students and Parents,
We hope this informational posting finds you well and you are having a great summer break. As part of our ongoing commitment to creating an optimal learning environment, the Pike County CTC has implemented a new cell phone policy starting in the 2024-25 school year. Our aim is to foster a school atmosphere where students can fully engage with their classmates, teachers, and the curriculum without unnecessary distractions.
Why This Policy is Necessary
Extensive research indicates that cell phone usage in schools negatively impacts student performance and mental health. Studies have shown that cell phones distract students from classroom instruction, leading to reduced learning gains and lower test scores. Additionally, increased cell phone use is associated with higher levels of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues among children.
Policy Details
I. Applicability This policy applies to all students while on school property during school hours.
II. Use of Cell Phones Students are prohibited from using cell phones during school hours.
III. Exceptions Exceptions to this policy include:
- Documented purposes within a student’s individualized education program (IEP) as per Chapter 3323 of the Ohio Revised Code.
- Plans developed under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794).
- Addressing health concerns as needed.
IV. Cell Phone Storage Students must store their cell phones in secured lock boxes provided by the district, located in their Program Labs, under the supervision of their Program Instructors. Phones should be placed in these lock boxes during homeroom in the morning and can be retrieved at the 2:20 bell before leaving school.
V. Discipline for Policy Violations To ensure compliance, the following disciplinary measures will be enforced progressively for violations:
- First Offense: A verbal warning will be given, and the student will be required to store their phone according to the policy.
- Second Offense: The phone will be placed in the Student Services Office for the remainder of the school day, and a disciplinary write-up will be issued.
- Third Offense: The phone will again be placed in the Student Services Office for the rest of the day, another disciplinary write-up will be issued, and a conference with the student’s parent or guardian will be scheduled to discuss the student's cell phone use.
Additional Information
We want to assure you that phones are available in all classrooms, and students are always welcome to use the office phone for necessary communications. If your child has appointments or other plans after school, please ensure that a plan is developed and communicated before they leave for school each day. Remind your child of these plans to minimize any disruptions during school hours.
We believe these measures will help enhance students' learning experiences and well-being. We appreciate your understanding and support as we work together to create a focused and productive educational environment.
Thank you for your cooperation.