Cell Phone and Personal Device Policy
Focused on Learning. Connected When It Matters.
Thompson School District's Cell Phone and Personal Device Policy is designed to reduce distractions, improve student engagement, and support safe, productive learning environments.
This page explains the policy in plain language. For the complete legal policy, view Board Policy JICJ.
At a Glance
When students may use cell phones and other personal technology devices during the school day
| Grade level | During class | Passing periods | Lunch | Before and after school |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary school (K–5) | Not permitted | Not permitted | Not permitted | Outside only during arrival and dismissal |
| Middle school (6–8) | Not permitted | Not permitted | Not permitted | Outside only during arrival and dismissal |
| High school (9–12) | Teacher permission only | Not permitted | Permitted in designated areas | Permitted, subject to school guidelines |
Approved accommodations and emergency exceptions may apply.
What Counts as a Personal Technology Device?
Personal technology devices include any privately owned portable electronic device used to communicate, record, or access digital content.
Cell phones
Smart watches
Earbuds
Tablets
Laptops
Smart glasses
Cameras
Other portable electronic devices
Why This Policy
Thompson School District's Cell Phone and Personal Device Policy helps create learning environments where students can focus, participate, and connect with one another.
- Improved student learning and academic performance
- Fewer classroom distractions
- More face-to-face interaction
- A safer, more focused learning environment
- Improved student well-being
Staying Connected During the School Day
Families can still reach students when needed. The best way to communicate depends on the situation.
Contact the School for Urgent Messages
If you need to reach your child during the school day, contact the school office. Staff can deliver the message or help your child contact you.
Students may also communicate with their families before entering the school building and after leaving at dismissal.
Emergencies
Students may use a personal device during an emergency when directed by the principal or another staff member.
During a school emergency, families should follow district and school communications rather than relying only on messages from individual students. This helps the school manage the situation and share accurate information.
Exceptions and Accommodations
Some students may need access to a personal technology device when use would otherwise be restricted.
Exceptions may be provided when device use is:
- Included in an Individualized Education Program, or IEP
- Included in a Section 504 Plan
- Required by a health care plan or documented medical need
- Specifically authorized by school administration
Families who believe their child needs an accommodation should contact their school to discuss the appropriate process.
When a Student Does Not Follow the Policy
Schools will respond to unauthorized or inappropriate device use through progressive discipline. The response will depend on the situation and whether violations continue.
A Device May Be Collected
A staff member may temporarily collect a device. It will generally be returned as soon as reasonably possible, usually by the end of the school day.
Repeated or Serious Violations
Additional responses may include:
- A parent or guardian conference
- Parent or guardian pickup of the device
- Loss of on-campus device privileges
- Behavioral interventions or a behavior plan
- Other consequences under the Student Code of Conduct
The district will avoid keeping a device for an extended period when possible. Students will not be unreasonably denied necessary communication outside school hours solely as a disciplinary consequence.
Privacy and Device Responsibility
Recording Is Prohibited in Private Spaces
Students may not use cameras or recording features in bathrooms, locker rooms, or other places where people reasonably expect privacy.
Students Bring Devices at Their Own Risk
Thompson School District is not responsible for personal devices that are lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed on district property or at school-sponsored activities.
Need Help?
Contact your child's school if you have questions about communication, accommodations, consequences, or school-specific expectations.