Device Policy

Beginning in the 2025–26 school year, students will not be able to use personal internet-enabled devices on school grounds during the school day. This includes, but is not limited to, cell phones.

A personal internet-enabled device is any electronic device not issued by Whitesboro CSD that can connect to the internet, allowing the user to access content online. Examples include but are not limited to:

• Communication devices, such as cell phones, smartphones, and smartwatches.
• Portable music and entertainment systems that have the ability to connect to the internet, such as some music players and gaming consoles. 
• Computing devices, such as laptops, tablets, and iPads.  

The policy does not restrict the use of school-issued Chromebooks for their intended purpose. Students will continue to be able to use their Whitesboro CSD issued devices for classwork and other in-school assignments.

In some cases, only when specifically authorized by the principal/designee and directed by staff, students may be allowed to use their personal electronic devices for educational activities.

This policy applies from "bell to bell," which means students are not permitted to use their personal devices throughout the entire school day. The "school day" covers all instructional and non-instructional time, including homeroom periods, lunch, recess, and study hall sessions.

No. Afterschool activities are not included in this policy. However, inappropriate, distracting, or dangerous behavior is prohibited, and all expectations for responsible use and appropriate behavior as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct still apply. Use may be limited based on expectations set by coaches, advisors, etc.

Usage by students while riding to and from school on a bus, or on a bus during school-sponsored activities is generally allowed. However, inappropriate, distracting, or dangerous behavior is prohibited, and all expectations for responsible use and appropriate behavior as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct still apply.

"School grounds" means in any building, or in/on any structure, athletic playing field, playground, or property owned by the school.

Yes, students are permitted to bring their devices to school, but they must be stored for the duration of the school day. Schools will provide storage methods for students to store their devices. This may include school-assigned personal lockers or other personalized storage. Teachers will not be required to hold or distribute devices in the classroom.

Backpacks alone are not considered a sufficient storage option, unless they are kept in a closet or cubby that cannot be accessed by students without permission.

Direct phone numbers for each school are available in the policy, on the District website, and in the District calendar. Parents/Guardians should make note of these numbers. If there is an emergency, and you have informed the principal or other staff members about the specific nature of the emergency, your child will be allowed to use a school phone to speak to or contact you.

In the event of a student emergency at school, school staff members will contact the student’s family directly. Furthermore, students have access to a school phone line at each school main office and/or additional designated locations, that will allow them to make emergency calls when necessary.

Yes. Devices may be used:

• By students with medical conditions that require the use of an internet-enabled personal electronic device, such as glucose monitors for diabetes. In this case, parents must inform the school and provide any necessary documentation to ensure proper authorization and usage.
• For translation services, to assist students who need language support not currently provided by their school.
• If required by an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan.
• By student caregivers, on a case-by-case basis. A school administrator will review and determine if exceptions may be granted for a student caregiver who is routinely responsible for the care and wellbeing of a family member.
• In individual emergency situations, when the parent has notified school administration of the specific nature of the emergency.
• Where otherwise required by law. This includes situations where federal, state, or local laws mandate the use of such devices for specific purposes.
• In some cases, students may be allowed to use their personal electronic devices for educational activities only when specifically authorized by the principal/designee and directed by staff.

They may be subject to progressive discipline in accordance with the Whitesboro CSD Student Code of Conduct. The school will use a series of progressive interventions and consequences to address the behavior based on the nature and frequency of the violation(s). Examples of interventions include warnings, surrender of a personal device, conferences with the student's parent(s)/guardian(s), or, if the behavior is sufficiently disruptive, removing the student from the classroom.

Students who violate this policy may have their personal device confiscated. In that event, affected families will be contacted by a school administrator or their designee, and devices will be returned in accordance with the school's protocols.

Refusal to surrender or store a personal device may result in a suspension for insubordination. Schools are not permitted to reduce students’ grades for violating the Student Use Of Internet-Enabled Devices Policy.

If a student reports a personal device is stolen at school, schools will:

• Notify the student’s parents/guardians
• Notify law enforcement if theft or other criminal activity is suspected
• Investigate the allegations and take appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the Whitesboro CSD Student Code of Conduct

Parents/Guardians should reach out to their child's school principal with any concerns or questions regarding the Student Use Of Internet-Enabled Devices Policy and its implementation at their child's school.

Students should go to their teacher or other adult who will contact the appropriate authorities.

In the event of a safety or weather emergency, the District will continue to notify parents/guardians via ParentSquare, the District website (www.wboro.org), and local media outlets. Students will be notified via PA announcements and/or by their teacher(s).

Students attending full-day off-site programs must adhere to the personal internet-enabled device policy at that location.

Student use of personal internet-enabled devices on field trips will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.