BCSD Cell Phone Policy and Guidelines
To support a school environment in which students can fully engage with their classmates, their teachers, and instruction, the Brooklyn Local Schools Board of Education has determined the use of cell phones by students during school hours should be limited.
The objective of this policy is to strengthen Brooklyn City School District’s focus on learning, in alignment with our mission to ignite students’ passion for learning, cultivate a strong foundation of knowledge, and foster a sense of community within our schools.
I. RESEARCH -
Research shows that student use of cellphones in schools has negative effects on student performance and mental health. Cell phones distract students from classroom instruction, resulting in smaller learning gains and lower test scores. Increased cell phone use has led to higher levels of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders in children.
II. APPLICABILITY -
This policy applies to the use of cell phones by students while on school property during school hours.
III. USE OF CELL PHONES -
Brooklyn High School: Grades 8-12
Students may use their cell phone before and after school, during their lunch break, and in between classes as long as they do not create a distraction, disruption or otherwise interfere with the educational environment. Use of cell phones, including personal communication devices, except those approved by a teacher or administrator, at any other time is prohibited. They must be placed in a storage area designated by the district at all times when cell phone use is prohibited. Students may request to use the telephone in the office in case of emergency. If a parent/guardian should need to get in touch with their child, they must call the main office. Administration can prohibit any electronic devices that pose a distraction to the learning environment.
Brooklyn PK-7 Campus
Cell phones, including personal communication devices, may not be used in the building during school hours. Students may bring a cell phone to school, but it must be turned off when in the building and should remain in the student's locker or designated area in the classroom. District issued chromebooks may be used in the cafeteria with administration approval. Use of cell phones, except those approved by a teacher or administrator, at any other time is prohibited. Students may request to use the telephone in the office in case of emergency. Administration can prohibit any electronic devices that pose a distraction to the learning environment.
IV. EXCEPTION -
Nothing in this policy prohibits a student from using a cell phone for a purpose documented in the student’s individualized education program developed under Chapter 3323 of the Ohio Revised Code or a plan developed under section 504 of the "Rehabilitation Act of 1973," 29 U.S.C. 794. A student may use a cell phone to monitor or address a health concern.
V. ENFORCEMENT OF POLICY -
If a student violates this policy, a teacher or administrator shall take the following progressively actions:
● Provide the student with a verbal warning and require the student to store their cell phone in accordance with this policy.
● Place the student’s cell phone in the school’s central office for the remainder of the school day.
● Place the student’s cell phone in the school’s central office to be picked up by the student’s parent or guardian.
● Repeated violations of this policy may result in further disciplinary action as determined by school administration and the Student Code of Conduct.
Parents/Guardians are advised that the best way to get in touch with their child
during the school day is by calling the school office:
Brooklyn High School 216-485-8162
Brooklyn PK-7 Campus 216-485-8176