Cell Phone Policy:

Purpose 
The purpose of this policy is to promote a focused, respectful, and distraction-free learning environment. Cell phones and other personal electronic devices can interfere with instruction and classroom engagement; therefore, their use is restricted during school hours.  

Policy 

Cell phones and Smart watches can only be used before school, during lunch, and after school while in the high school building. 

Classroom Use 

Cell phones must be turned off or set to silent mode during instructional time. Phones must be stored in backpacks, lockers, or designated classroom holders and may not be visible on desks, in students’ hands, or in their pockets unless permitted by the teacher for educational purposes. Students who are using their phone as a hotspot to access social media on their laptop or tablet must turn in their phone to the office, and the offense will count as a phone violation. 

Common Areas and Passing Periods 

Cell phone use is prohibited in hallways, classrooms, and common areas during passing periods. 

Headphones Allowed 

Teacher discretion will be allowed regarding headphone use during independent work time. During instruction time, headphones are not allowed. 

Students with documented accommodations will be able to use headphones according to their approved plans. 

 Exceptions for Individual Use 

A student may request to come to the office to use their phone if a special situation arises. 

Parents should contact the main office for urgent messages rather than calling or texting students during class time. The KHS office phone number is 208-423-4170 ext. 3146. 

Exceptions for Classroom Use 

Teachers may allow cell phone use for instructional purposes at their discretion. 

Students with documented medical needs may use devices as required. 

Consequences of Violations 

When an offense occurs, the student will be asked to turn their phone into the office. If they refuse to turn in their phone, they are suspended from school for 1-day. 

-First Offense: The phone is locked away in the office and will be returned at the end of the school day. The amount of time the phone is locked away will be equivalent to a full school day. If a phone is turned in after lunch, the student must also turn in their phone the following morning until after lunch. 

-Second Offense: Same as 1st offense plus a 30-minute lunch detention. 

-Third Offense: Same as 1st offense, plus 60-minute detention, and a parent must come to pick up the phone. 

-Continued Offenses: The student will be placed on a behavior contract. Consequences can range from detention, in-school suspension, or not being allowed to bring their phone to school for a determined amount of time. 

Rationale 
This policy is designed to minimize distractions, improve academic performance, improve social and emotional well-being, and encourage positive social interaction among students.  

Additional Cell Phone restrictions:

• Kimberly High School respects the right of privacy for all students and staff. Taking pictures of other people while on campus during school hours requires their permission BEFORE taking their photo or video. Violation of this rule will result in the student having their cell phone confiscated and parents will be contacted.