Cell Phone Policy

We understand the need for students to have access to their phones before and after school. Therefore, students shall be permitted to use cell phones before and after school hours only. During the instructional day, all cell phones are to be turned off and put away during the school day, this includes recess and other outside activities. 

For privacy matters, cell phones are not allowed in the restrooms at any time during the school day. Please advise your child to use the phone in the office in any case of emergency, such as injury or illness. We ask that you call the front office if you need to speak with your child and refrain from calling or texting them during the school day.  This is key to keeping your child focused on vital academic instruction.  Other electronics should not be brought to school unless otherwise authorized by the teacher for educational purposes. John Bidwell will not take responsibility or assume any liability or fault for lost,damaged or stolen cell phones.  Investigations will only be done if theft is suspected, however there is no guarantee for recovery.  Bring cell phones at your own risk.  It is encouraged that all cell phones have a tracker for these purposes.  Please understand the importance of cooperating with the school on this matter. 

The following outlines the process that will be taken if your child has a phone out during the school day and is unwilling to turn it off and put it away. 

• 1st time: Student has cell phone out, staff member prompts student to turn it off and put it away.                                                                                   
•  2nd time: Staff member asks for the cell phone and turns it into the front office.
  • Parents or adult family members must pick it up and have a conference.      
• 3rd time: Staff member asks for the cell phone and turns it into the front office.
  •  Consequences will be given for repeated occurrence.
• 4th time:  Phone cannot be returned to school
  • Consequences that may include impact on access to school-wide events, celebrations or extracurricular activities (i.e. ceremonies, field trips, school events may be revoked.

Thank you for your cooperation and support.