Cell Phone Policy
Policy Code: 4318 Use of Wireless Communication Devices
The board recognizes that wireless communication devices have become an important tool for communications and information access. The Board is committed to supporting student wellness by fostering a healthy understanding of how technology should be used in daily life. We recognize that technology is an integral part of our world—and for many students, it represents both a learning tool and a potential career path. As such, we believe it is essential to teach balanced, responsible digital habits that promote well-being and sustain a focus on learning.
A wireless communication device is any portable wireless device that has the capability to provide voice, messaging, or other data communication between two or more parties, including: cell phones, smart phones, tablet computers, netbooks, laptops, paging devices, two-way radios, gaming devices, Bluetooth-enabled ear buds and headphones, and smart watches.
This policy does not apply to district-issued and managed devices, which are governed by Policy 3225/4312/7320 Technology Responsible Use.
CHCCS believes the school day should be a time for focused learning, engagement, and personal growth. To support this, we are reinforcing the importance of maintaining an environment that is free from unnecessary distractions.
To support a learning environment that prioritizes academic and social-emotional development, we ask families to talk with their children about this policy and help reinforce the importance of using personal communication devices responsibly and only as permitted during the school day.
A. Authorized Use
Wireless communication devices may not be used, displayed, or turned on during the instructional day at any grade level, except as follows:
(1) If authorized by a teacher for educational purposes or for use in the event of an emergency. School principals are authorized to set school rules specifying the parameters for teachers to grant permission to use a device for educational purposes.
(2) As required by the student's individualized education program or Section 504 plan.
(3) As required to manage a student’s health care, in accordance with a documented medical condition.
a. At the elementary and middle school level, the “instructional day” begins with the first tardy bell and ends at dismissal.
b. At the high school level, "instructional day" begins with the first tardy bell and ends at dismissal, but does not include the student's scheduled lunch periods.
Bluetooth-enabled earbuds and headphones are not permitted when wireless communication devices are not allowed. Headphones may be used for instructional purposes when connected to the school-issued device.
No permission is required to call 911 emergency services when appropriate.
Use of wireless communication devices is permitted on school buses; however, audio must be played only with headphones or earbuds and at a reasonable volume so as not to disturb other students or distract the driver. Students should still be able to hear directions from the driver or district staff while using headphones or earbuds.
B. Consequences for Unauthorized Use
If a wireless device is used without permission during the instructional day, a warning will be issued to the student for the first offense. Repeated violations will result in parent notification, as well as other applicable consequences under the Code of Conduct, Character, and Support. If the device is used again after parent notification, the device may be confiscated by school staff. Confiscated devices will be returned at the end of the school day. Subsequent offenses will require a parent or guardian to collect the device at school. As a matter of safety within the school setting, if at any time a school employee requests that a student refrain from using such items, failure to comply will result in the use of behavior interventions, which include, but is not limited to, confiscation of the device.
The disciplinary consequences for violations of this policy shall be consistent with Section D of policy 4300, Student Behavior Policies. The superintendent or designee shall list in the Code of Student Conduct the specific range of consequences that may be imposed on a student for violations of this policy.
The following factors should be considered when determining appropriate consequences when the wireless communication device is used:
(1) to reproduce images of tests, obtain unauthorized access to school information, or assist students in any aspect of their instructional program in a manner that violates any school board policy, administrative regulation, or school rule;
(2) to bully or harass other students;
(3) to send illicit text, email messages, or images;
(4) to take, send, or post to social media outlets illicit photographs, audio, or video recordings;
(5) to take, send, or post to social media outlets, photographs, audio, or video recordings of non-public events without the explicit permission of the individual whose image or voice is recorded; or
(6) in any other manner that would make more severe disciplinary consequences appropriate.
Students must comply with all applicable board policies, administrative regulations, and school standards and rules in using technological resources. All applicable laws, including those relating to copyrights and trademarks, confidential information, and public records, apply to wireless access use. Any use that violates state or federal law is strictly prohibited.
C. Search of Wireless Communication Devices
In accordance with policy 4342, Student Searches, a student's wireless communication device and its contents, including, but not limited to, text messages, digital photos, and files, may be searched whenever a school official has reason to believe the search will provide evidence that the student has violated or is violating a law, board policy, the Code of Student Conduct or a school rule (beyond mere possession of the device). The scope of such searches must be reasonably related to the objectives of the search and not excessively intrusive in light of the nature of the suspected infraction.
D. Liability
Students are personally and solely responsible for the security of their wireless communication devices. The school system is not responsible for the theft, loss, or damage of a cellular phone or other personal wireless communication device.
Legal References: G.S. 115C-36, -390.2
Cross References: Student Behavior Policies (policy 4300), Disruptive Behavior (policy 4315), Student Searches (policy 4342), Technology Acceptable Use (policy 3225/4312/7320), Computer, Network, and Internet Acceptable Use Procedures for Students (policy 3225-R).
Adopted: 5/17/12, 7/10/25, 08/14/25
Chapel Hill-Carrboro Schools