EHMS emphasizes “electronic etiquette” regarding cell phones and other electronic devices in school. We want students to be engaged in class, social activities, and other school experiences, not focused on their cellphones. The Electronic Device policy aims to preserve the academic environment at EHMS while eliminating distractions. We strive to teach students about the responsible use of technology.
The EHMS Electronic Device policy is in accordance with the regulations set forth by the EHPS BOE. As defined by the EHPS BOE policy, “Electronic devices include all devices that can take photographs; record audio or video data; store, transmit or receive messages or images; or provide a wireless, unfiltered connection to the Internet.” BOE policy 5131.82 specifically notes that “the use of any such device for an improper purpose is prohibited.” Per this policy, “improper purposes” are defined as:
- Sending any form of a harassing, threatening, or intimidating message, at any time, to any person (such communications may also be a crime).
- Gaining or seeking to gain unauthorized access to Board technology resources.
- Damaging Board technology resources.
- Accessing or attempting to access any material that is absence as to minors, or contains pornography.
- Cyberbullying
- Using such device to violate any school rule, including the unauthorized recording (photographic, video, or audio) of another individual without the permission of the individual or a school staff member.
- Taking any action prohibited by and Federal or State Law.
If at any time a student refuses to comply with the EHMS Electronic Device Policy they will be deemed “insubordinate” according to the EHPS Code of Conduct and may be subject to disciplinary action.
Daily Expectations of Students
Students may possess electronic devices on school property, as long as devices are not activated and not visible during school hours. Students may keep phones in their backpacks or pockets. Students are not allowed to use ear buds, headphones, or earphones during the school day, except when used for instructional purposes. Students must have these items put away and not visible. The school district shall not be responsible for the loss, damage or misuse of any electronic device.
Students who use their cell phones, earbuds, headphones, air pods or other electronic devices during school hours (7:55 am - 2:45 pm) will be provided with an opportunity to correct the violation and stay in class. If students refuse to comply with the electronic device policy, the student will be subject to disciplinary action and the cell phone or electronic device will be turned into an administrator. The cell phone or electronic device (including headphones/earbuds) will be returned at the end of the day and progressive discipline will be applied
Any student who is found to be using their electronic device to negatively impact the learning environment (including but not limited to: recording others (students and/or staff) without permission, instigating a verbal/physical altercation, recording of a verbal/physical altercation, etc.) may be subject to disciplinary action.
Search of Privately Owned Technological Devices
Per BOE policy 5131.82: “A student’s privately-owned technological device may be searched if the device is on Board property or in a student’s possession at a school sponsored activity and if there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the rules of the school. Any such search shall be reasonably related to the objectives of the search and not excessively intrusive in light of the age and sex of the student and the nature of the infraction”.
Furthermore, this policy dictates that a violation of this policy may result in suspension or expulsion in accordance with the Board’s policies related to student discipline.