Annual Required Notices
The following is a comprehensive list of annual notices, policies, and procedures required to be made available to the public, consistent with state and federal laws or regulations.
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STUDENT CELL PHONE AND SMART DEVICE POSSESSION AND USE
Definitions
As used in this policy and related regulations,
"Bell to bell" means after the first bell rings at the start of the school day to begin instructional time until the dismissal bell rings at the end of the school day. "Bell to bell" includes lunch and time in between class periods.
"Smart device" means any personal electronic device that can connect to the internet and wirelessly collect, process, and transmit data, including smart watches and tablets.
Generally
The Charles City School Board establishes age-appropriate and developmentally appropriate restrictions for student use and possession of cell phones and smart devices on school property from bell-to-bell.
The superintendent issues regulations setting forth the restrictions and procedures to be followed to effectuate this policy. Any regulations issued in accordance with this policy may include additional exemptions, including procedures for emergency communications with students.
Student Cell Phones and Smart Devices on School Property
Students are permitted to use and possess cell phones and smart devices on school property before or after bell to bell, subject to additional regulations as may be issued. Such permitted use must not result in distractions or disruptions to the learning environment, disruptive behavior, bullying, harassment, crime, or any other behavior that violates other policies, regulations or laws.
From bell to bell, students are restricted from using or possessing cell phones on school property in accordance with this policy, issued regulations, and applicable laws.
Restrictions By Age Group
Elementary Schools (Kindergarten through Grade 5):
Cell phones and other electronic devices, including AirPods, earbuds, and other Bluetooth devices, must be turned off and put away for the entire school day (“off and away the entire day”). The school day is from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. at the elementary school. While in class, students cannot use their phones for any purpose, including as a calculator, clock, or for listening to music, reading, or checking grades. However, wired earphones may be used if they are plugged into a laptop for specific coursework. Any student in violation of the conditions for possessing a cellular telephone or Bluetooth device will lose the privilege and will be subject to disciplinary action including up to ten days out-of-school suspension. Any student who uses a cellular telephone for unlawful activity while on school property, or while attending any school activity while on school property, or while attending any school function or activity, will be subject to disciplinary action that may include out-of-school suspension or a recommendation for expulsion. The use of cell phones during any testing situation will have consequences associated with the Honor Code.
Middle Schools/High/Secondary Schools (Grade 7 through 12):
Cell phones and other electronic devices, including AirPods, earbuds, and other Bluetooth devices, must be turned off and put away for the entire school day (“off and away the entire day”). The school day is from 7:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. at the middle/high school. While in class, students cannot use their phones for any purpose, including as a calculator, clock, or for listening to music, reading, or checking grades. However, wired earphones may be used if they are plugged into a laptop for specific coursework. Any student in violation of the conditions for possessing a cellular telephone or Bluetooth device will lose the privilege and will be subject to disciplinary action including up to ten days out-of-school suspension. Any student who uses a cellular telephone for unlawful activity while on school property, or while attending any school activity while on school property, or while attending any school function or activity, will be subject to disciplinary action that may include out-of-school suspension or a recommendation for expulsion. The use of cell phones during any testing situation will have consequences associated with the Honor Code.
Exemptions
Any student who, pursuant to an Individualized Education Plan, Section 504 Plan, individualized health care plan, or Limited English Proficiency plan, is permitted to possess and use a cell phone or smart device on school property, including in the classroom, from bell to bell to monitor or address a health concern or as an accommodation or assistive technology support.
Implementation and Enforcement
The superintendent and the school administration of each elementary and secondary school in the division are responsible for implementing and enforcing this policy. Any implementation and enforcement of this policy minimizes, to the extent possible, any conflict with the instructional responsibilities of teachers or any disturbance to instructional time and does not involve any school resource officer employed in any school in the division.
Discipline of Students
No student will be suspended or expelled solely for a violation of this policy. Any violation of this policy that involves, coincides with, or results in an instance of disruptive behavior, bullying, harassment, crime, or any other behavior that violates other policies, regulations or laws, is subject to discipline, addressed in accordance with the Standards of Student Conduct and applicable policies and regulations.
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Virginia law requires each school division to develop a long-range, comprehensive plan that is based on data and focused on improving classroom instruction and student achievement. These plans are created with input from staff and the community, reviewed every two years, and updated as needed. School divisions must also make the plans available to the public online or in print and hold a public hearing before adopting them.
25-26 CCES CSSP:
26-27 CCES CSSP:
25-26 CCHS CSSP:
26-27 CCHS CSSP
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In the event of inclement weather, Charles City County Public Schools will prioritize student and staff safety, as well as quality instruction. If closures or delays are necessary, every effort will be made to notify parents/guardians and staff by 5:30 a.m. Announcements will be made utilizing the following:
- ParentSquare (please make sure the school has your current phone/mobile number)
- Local News Media
- Division website: Charles City Public Schools
Important: The Division reserves the right to re-evaluate the Inclement Weather Guidelines and alter the school day and/ or the school calendar, if needed, to meet VDOE's required minimum instructional hours.