Distraction-Free Schools Policy

At OnTECH Charter High School, we value a focused, respectful, and safe learning environment. While we recognize that digital devices, including cell phones, can support learning in some contexts, unsupervised and unauthorized use during the school day interferes with academic success and student well-being.

This policy is designed to promote responsible use, minimize distractions, and align with state laws regarding student access to internet-enabled devices.

Daily Procedure

To maintain a distraction-free school environment:

• All students are required to turn in their cell phones and internet-enabled devices upon arrival at school each morning.
• Phones will be stored in clearly marked homeroom compartments
• Students will retrieve their devices at dismissal under staff supervision.
• Students may not access their cell phones or smart devices during the school day unless permission is given by a staff member for an approved reason.

Emergency & Parent Communication

We understand the importance of staying connected in emergency situations or when urgent information must be shared.

• In the case of an emergency, students may request to use their phone with approval from an administrator or the Dean of Students.
• Parents and those in parental relation may contact students during the school day by calling the Main Office at 315-396-0558, where staff will:

• Deliver messages to students promptly.
• Bring students to the office for urgent calls, when necessary.

If a Student Does Not Follow the Cell Phone Policy:

We focus on positive habits, self-agency, and student accountability. If a student chooses not to follow the policy:

• Verbal reminder from the teacher to follow the procedure, upon which the student turns in the internet-enabled device to the Dean
• The teacher documents the incident and informs the Dean.
• Student meeting with the Dean to reflect and reset expectations.
• Dean contacts the parent/guardian to discuss the ongoing issue.

If behavior continues:

• The parent/guardian must pick up the device from school.
• The student must follow a device behavior plan including regular check in with the Dean.

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Dear Parent/Guardian,

At OnTECH Charter High School, we are committed to creating a safe, focused, and supportive learning environment. To minimize distractions and promote academic success, OnTECH will operate as a cell phone-free zone during the school day.

Our Cell Phone Policy ensures compliance with state law and reflects the input of students, staff, and families. Students will store their phones in designated, supervised storage locations upon arrival and retrieve them at the end of the day. Backpacks and clothing pockets are not acceptable storage options under this policy, as they allow continuous access to devices, which is not permitted.

In the event of an emergency or if you need to reach your child during school hours, please contact the Main Office at (315) 396-0558. Office staff will deliver the message or bring your child to the office if necessary. This communication method will be shared again before each school year and during new student enrollment.

Cell Phone Use Acknowledgment

In the interest of a safe and healthy school environment, OnTECH Charter High School will be a cell phone-free zone. Parents, faculty, and staff believe that a phone-free school minimizes distractions, maximizes learning, and fosters pride, dignity, and a sense of belonging.

Guardians that need to contact their child must call the main office at (315) 396-0558.

Please refer to the OnTECH Charter High School Discipline Code for details on infractions and consequences related to violations of the Technology Use Policy.

By signing below, you acknowledge and support the school's efforts to create a phone-free learning space.

Name of Guardian (Print):

Signature:

Date:

If you have any questions or would like to review the full policy, please contact the school administration. We appreciate your partnership in supporting student learning and growth.

Sincerely,
OnTECH Charter High School Administration