Devices Off = Learning On FAQs

Personal electronic devices include: cell phones, ear buds, headphones and smart-watches.

Please contact the school’s main office if you need to reach your child during a time PEDs are not allowed.

Yes, before they enter and after they exit the school.

Elementary students who choose to bring cell phones and other PEDs to school will need to keep them silenced and stored (e.g. in the student’s backpack, locker) for the duration of the school day.

Middle school students who choose to bring cell phones or other PEDs to school may only use the PED during lunch and before/after the school day, upon exiting the building. During all other times, students will need to keep them silenced and stored (e.g. in the student’s backpack, locker, or other teacher designated location).

High school students who choose to bring cell phone or other PEDs to school may only use the PED during passing periods, at lunch and before/after the school day. Students are expected to silence and store their PED (e.g. in the student’s backpack, locker, or other teacher designated location) before entering a classroom.

Yes, the policy applies to all instructional time to maintain consistency and maximize focus across the school day.

No, students will not have it with them if they leave class on a pass to go to the restroom or any other location. To protect student privacy, restrooms are cell phone free areas.

Exceptions may be made in the event of an emergency situation that involves imminent physical danger or a school administrator authorizes students to use a device.

We have clear communication protocols in place to ensure accurate updates are provided to families. The ASD uses ParentSquare to communicate with families in emergency situations.

Exceptions for students who have specific accommodations for assistive technology to address documented health or learning needs may use a cell phone and/or PED during the school day following the process outlined in the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), 504 Plan or Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP).

The ASD has a tool called Securly that families can sign up for to track all activity on the student’s district device.  More info here.

All communication between coaches and students should be sent via ParenSquare and students should receive notifications via their district email.

Teachers will guide students through the new routines and counselors will be available to support students who may struggle with the transition. The school also will provide additional education on digital citizenship.

The ASD provides all required instructional technology tools to meet their learning needs.

School personnel do not wish to engage in power struggles with students who do not secure their phones/smart watches, or other PEDs. It is expected that students comply with the policy like they do other school rules. If a student has their PED out during the class period, they will be sent to the office to secure it.. It will be returned at the end of the day. If this happens more than twice,  a parent or guardian will be contacted, and they will need to pick up the phone from the office. It is important to remember the intent of the policy is to support students with creating a classroom environment that is free of distractions.