A new policy restricting cell phone use in all schools within the Webb City R-7 School District was approved Tuesday by the Board of Education.
As Superintendent Brenten Byrd explained to the board, the new policy, number 2656, does not spell out consequences for violating the policy.
Those are dealt with in the student handbook and mainly involve graduating stages of suspension, beginning with in-school suspension.
More details about the ban on cell-phones and answers to questions about it are on the district’s website.
Byrd added that school employees are expected to model good behavior by adhering to the same cell-phone usage rules that apply to students.
Student Cell Phone Usage
Developments in cell phone technology in recent years have resulted in enhanced communication opportunities. However, the use of cell phones in schools poses increasing risks of school disruptions, bullying, criminal activity, and academic dishonesty. As a result, student cell phones, digital cameras and similar electronic devices may not be used or displayed during the school day, as well as, in dressing areas during extracurricular activities. Violation of this policy during the first semester after adoption of this policy will result in in-school suspension, while second offenses will result in out-of-school suspension being imposed.
However, such electronic devices may be used in serious, unexpected and dangerous situations that require immediate action. Such emergency situations include but are not limited to:
- An active fire
- An active tornado or earthquake
- An active shooter
- An evacuation of school premises
- Any other serious, unexpected and dangerous situations that require immediate action
- Any situation identified in School Board Policy as an emergency
In addition, exceptions include situations when a student is directed to use such a device by a District employee or volunteer for instructional purposes. Exceptions will also be made when use of such electronic device is provided or required by:
- The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- An individualized emergency health care plan as provided by Missouri statute
- Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504)
- Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII)
- Equal Educational Opportunities Act
Immunity
School employees and volwiteers are immune from liability provided that they are acting in good faith and are adhering to this Policy’s disciplinary procedures.
