Electronic & Wireless Communication Devices

In general, students have no need to bring cell phones, tablets or other wireless communication devices to school. Students shall not use, display, transmit or have in the “on” position on school property any wireless communication device, including but not necessarily limited to, cellular telephones, tablets, smart watches, paging devices, two-way radios, cameras or similar devices until after the conclusion of the school day.

Students shall be personally and solely responsible for the security of their cell phones. However, any device possessed or used in violation of this rule may be immediately confiscated by school personnel. Absent compelling and unusual circumstances, wireless communication devices that are confiscated by the school will only be returned to the student’s parent or guardian. Alvord Unified School District shall not assume responsibility for theft, loss or damage of cell phones or any other personal wireless communication devices. Students who violate the above restrictions shall be deemed to have created a disruption to the instructional environment and will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, generally up to and including short-term suspension. Additional aggravating factors subject a student to more stringent disciplinary consequences when the circumstances warrant.

Using wireless communication devices to reproduce images of tests, to access unauthorized school information or to assist students in any aspect of their instructional program in a manner that violates any school board policy, district or school code of conduct is prohibited. Further, using cellular telephones or other devices with photographic capabilities in classrooms, playground, library, cafeteria, restrooms or any other common student area is also prohibited.

The capabilities of mobile devices have increased tremendously. With mobile devices students may have unhindered access to the internet and online applications, including social media. Social media has its positive uses, but is not recommended for young children. Parents should monitor and limit the use of mobile devices and their applications. We understand there are safety concerns and the desire to communicate with students before and after school. Many options are available to parents, such as restrictions on mobile data. Here is a noninclusive list of social media applications and age restrictions/recommendations:

• TikTok requires that users be at least 13 years old to use the app.
• Instagram requires everyone to be at least 13 years old before they can create an account.
• Facebook requires everyone to be at least 13 years old before they can create an account.
• Snapchat has a minimum age requirement of 13 years old.
• Twitter has always required its users to be 13 years old or older.

We do not recommend the use of Social Media applications by any of our students. Please be vigilant of your student’s use of mobile devices and “screen time.”