NEW CELL PHONE POLICY

We want to inform you about a new policy affecting the use of wireless devices in our schools. As of July 1, 2024, Senate Bill 185 (IC 20-26-5-40.7) requires school districts to implement a policy that limits the use of wireless communication devices in classrooms. This policy will help to maintain an academic focus in our classrooms while preventing disruptions within our learning environments.

Instructional Time: Time spent in approved courses or educational activities under teacher direction (IC 20-30-2-1.A).
Wireless Communication Device: Any portable device capable of voice, messaging, or data communication (e.g., cell phones, tablets, laptops, digital cameras, gaming devices). School-issued iPads are permitted to be used during instructional time for educational purposes.

Key Points of the New Policy

Permitted Uses:

With teacher permission for educational purposes
During emergencies or to manage health care
As part of an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan

Prohibited Uses:

Interfering with school purposes or educational functions
Invading privacy
Acts of academic dishonesty
Profane, indecent, or obscene behavior

Consequences:

Devices used in violation of this policy may be confiscated.
Confiscated devices will be returned to parents.

Grade Level-Specific Guidelines

In all Concord K-6 buildings, wireless communication devices are to remain silenced, in backpacks in lockers. Should students neglect to follow this procedure, students may be subject to consequences including confiscation of the student’s phone. Confiscation will require the parent/guardian to pick the phone up at the end of the school day.
All Concord 7-12 students may be in possession of their wireless communication device during the school day, but must adhere to the protocols in the student handbook (https://www.concordschools.com/page/student-handbook) that specify the procedures to eliminate wireless communication device usage during instructional time. Students are encouraged to leave their wireless communication device at home or in their locker during the school day. Wireless communication devices may be allowed to be used during lunch, but students must adhere to acceptable usage guidance listed below.

In all Concord K-6 buildings, wireless communication devices are to remain silenced, in backpacks in lockers. Should students neglect to follow this procedure, students may be subject to consequences including confiscation of the student’s phone. Confiscation will require the parent/guardian to pick the phone up at the end of the school day.

All Concord 7-12 students may be in possession of their wireless communication device during the school day, but must adhere to the protocols listed below that specify the procedures to eliminate wireless communication device usage during instructional time. Students are encouraged to leave their wireless communication device at home or in their locker during the school day. Wireless communication devices may be allowed to be used during lunch, but students must adhere to acceptable usage guidance listed below.

Why This Change?

Reduce Distractions: Keeps students focused on learning.
Address Social Issues: Reduces cyberbullying and other issues.
Encourage Interaction: Promotes face-to-face communication.

We appreciate your support in helping us create a focused and safe learning environment. Please discuss these changes with your child to ensure they understand and comply with the new policy.

Concord Community Schools

BACK TO SCHOOL EVENTS

CONCORD EAST SIDE

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CONCORD WEST SIDE

CONCORD INTERMEDIATE

CONCORD JUNIOR HIGH

CONCORD HIGH SCHOOL

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

CELL PHONE POLICY

IPAD USAGE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL HOURS

ATTENDANCE POLICY

TRANSPORTATION ROUTING

IMMUNIZATIONS

1/2 DAY EARLY RELEASE SCHEDULE