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.

 

 

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