Florence, South Carolina – Florence 1 Schools has put comprehensive policies on the use of personal electronic devices during school hours in place in an attempt to improve the learning environment and encourage student focus.
These guidelines, in line with district policy and state policy as well as the Student Code of Conduct, provide precise limits for device use and define the obligations of students who bring such devices onto school property.
Understanding the policy
The new rules describe “unauthorized devices” as any non-district-issued electronic instrument with information-sent, receiving, storing, or displaying capabilities. Smartwatches, wireless headphones, computers, tablets, and even drones are just a few of the devices in this group. Similarly classified, phones fall under this limit independent of their functioning state.
Under the new rules, all personal gadgets have to be off and kept safely in a backpack or other non-visible spot during school hours. This applies generally for all grade levels, from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.
When can devices be used?
To clarify expectations, the district listed some situations in which personal phones and devices are allowed:
- Before and after school: Devices can be used freely, including during after-school activities such as athletics and clubs.
- During the school day: Usage is strictly prohibited during class, lunch periods, transition times, and even in restrooms.
This structured approach aims to minimize distractions and encourage meaningful engagement during school hours.
Consequences for policy violations
Florence 1 Schools has adopted a tiered approach to handling infractions, escalating consequences for repeated violations:
- First Offense: The device is confiscated, and the student receives an administrative referral. Parents are notified, and the item is returned to the student at the end of the day.
- Second Offense: The item is confiscated and returned to a parent, with further administrative action taken.
- Third Offense: In addition to confiscation, the student faces a one-day out-of-school suspension (OSS).
- Fourth Offense: A two-day OSS is issued.
- Fifth Offense: The student is subject to a three-day OSS and an administrative hearing.
Any refusal to surrender a device to school administrators elevates the infraction to a higher-level offense under the category of “Refusal to Obey.”
Protecting both students and staff
The district took steps to guarantee that applying the policy gives safety top priority. Staff members and teachers are given instructions not to physically take devices directly from from students. Administrators are not allowed to similarly forcefully seize items. These steps seek to avoid conflicts and preserve a respectful classroom.
The policy also specifies exceptions. Students needing devices for special academic purposes or medical monitoring, for example, can get permission from the building principle.
Fostering responsibility
The district emphasizes that when on school premises, students alone are in charge of the security and upkeep of their devices. This strategy supports responsibility and fits the more general objective of preserving a distraction-free classroom.
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A positive shift for learning
The gadget rules mirror Florence 1 Schools’ dedication to provide a conducive learning environment. Reducing distractions helps the district to give student success, social contacts, and academic development first priority.
Working together, parents, teachers, and officials are encouraged to guarantee the seamless application of these policies. The district expects persistent enforcement and open communication to open the path for everyone to enjoy better education.
Florence 1 Schools is committed to helping its students—in and out of the classroom—by establishing an environment fit for learning and personal growth with the implementation of this policy.
