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Cell Phone Policy

Policy JICJ: Prohibition of Personal Electronic Devices During the School Day Policy

Effective Date: January 6, 2025 

Purpose

The Board of Trustees has adopted the "Prohibition of Personal Electronic Devices During the School Day" (Policy JICJ) to create a phone-free school environment. This policy is in compliance with the General Appropriations Bill, H. 5100 of 2024, Proviso 1.103, and applies to all students in grades K-12. The goal is to foster a learning environment that is free from electronic distractions, which will allow students to remain focused, engaged, and better prepared to develop the skills outlined in the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate. 

Policy Overview

Effective January 6, 2025, all students at Cooper River Center for Advanced Studies are required to have personal electronic devices powered off and placed securely in a bookbag, purse, or other designated storage. During the instructional day, students are prohibited from having any personal electronic devices (including, but not limited to, smartphones, personal computers, tablets, smartwatches, smart glasses, headphones, earbuds, or any other devices that connect to the internet) on their person or in use. 

Scope

  • Applies to: All students attending Cooper River Center for Advanced Studies. 
  • Duration: This policy is in effect from the time students arrive on campus until the end of the school day, including during field trips and other school-sponsored activities. 
     

Guidelines

  • Electronic Device Storage:
  1. Students must store their personal electronic devices in a bookbag, purse, or their vehicle, and ensure that the device is powered off during the instructional day. 
  2. A one-time courtesy will be extended, and students will be given a paper bag to store their electronic devices  upon arrival. 
  • Consequences for Violations: Any violation of this policy will result in consequences as outlined in the CCSD 24-25 Progressive Discipline Plan. Repeat or serious violations may lead to further disciplinary action.
     

Exceptions

  • Students with Special Needs: Students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Medical Plan, or Section 504 accommodation that requires the use of electronic devices for educational or medical purposes are exempt from this policy. These students will be permitted to use their devices as outlined in their plan. 
  • Emergency Situations: In rare instances, emergencies as determined by the administration may allow for limited use of electronic devices. Any such use will be at the discretion of the school administration. 
     

Student Contact During the Instructional Day 

  1. If you need to contact your child during the instructional day, please use your child’s school email for all non-emergent communications. 
  2. If there is an emergency, please contact the school at (843) 953-3231.
     

Intent

The primary intent of this policy is to ensure that all students can engage in their learning without the distraction of personal electronic devices. This approach will help students develop the critical skills necessary for success in both academic and professional environments. 

We appreciate the cooperation of students, parents, and guardians in adhering to this policy to maintain an environment conducive to learning and personal development. 

For questions or further clarification, please contact the school's administration.