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Cell Phone Usage Policy

To view the policy in a printable version, please click here.

Subject: Enhancing Focus and Learning: Updates on Cell Phone Usage Policy
 
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We are so excited to welcome your student to Byron Nelson for the 2023-2024 school year. As we continually strive to create an optimal learning environment for our students, we are excited to share some updates regarding our approach to cell phone usage during instructional time.
In an era where technology plays an integral role in our lives, we believe it is essential to strike a balance between its benefits and potential distractions, especially within the school setting. Research has shown that excessive cell phone use during instructional hours can have a negative impact on students' attention spans, academic performance, and overall well-being. To address this concern, we are implementing a refined cell phone usage policy, effective Wednesday, August 16, 2023.
 
Key Highlights of the New Cell Phone Usage Campus Practice:
 
1. Restricted Usage During Class: To enhance student engagement and active participation, we kindly request that all students refrain from using their cell phones during class time. This means that students should not use their phones for texting, browsing, gaming, or any other non-academic activities while lessons are in progress.
2. Designated Breaks for Cell Phone Use: Recognizing the importance of staying connected,
students will be allowed to use their cell phones during designated breaks such as: between
classes, during their lunch, and before/after school. This will provide them with opportunities to
check messages, make calls, and take care of personal matters without disrupting the learning
process.
3. Respectful Implementation: We believe that cultivating responsible digital citizenship is
essential. We will emphasize the importance of respectful cell phone/headphone usage,
including adhering to teacher specific guidelines when they have determined if or when it is
appropriate to use those devices during non-instructional time.
4. Educational Use of Technology: Students should be utilizing their school issued chrome book or personal laptop brought from home for all educational needs. A student’s cell phone is not an appropriate substitution for this device.
 
We genuinely appreciate your support and partnership in ensuring that our students can thrive
academically and personally. By working together, we aim to create an environment that fosters focus, active learning, and healthy tech habits. If you have any questions or concerns about the new cell phone usage practice, please feel free to reach out to us.
 
Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. We look forward to another successful and productive academic year.
 
Sincerely,
 
Kara Lea Deardorff
Principal
Byron Nelson High School