Mobile Phones

A policy for use by Students.

There are times when it is genuinely appropriate and beneficial for students to have access to a private mobile telephone. Students may, for example, need to contact parents in emergencies or to confirm or change a collection time after school. However, except in times of genuine emergency, mobile telephone use will be restricted at school. In most instances, the school’s phone land line would be available for most emergencies. As a result there is not a real need for students to have a mobile at school. However, if this not the case, the following Guidelines have been established. These guidelines apply to students at school, during excursions, camps and extra-curricular activities.

GUIDELINES FOR APPROPRIATE USE OF MOBILE TELEPHONES BY STUDENTS

• It is important that students display courtesy, consideration and respect for others whenever they are using a mobile telephone.
• Mobile telephones should not be used in any manner or place that is disruptive to normal school routine.
• Students should have their mobile telephone switched off and out of sight during classes.
• Students should only use their mobile telephones before or after school
• In-phone cameras are not to be used anywhere a normal camera would be considered inappropriate.
• Students should not photograph or film other individuals without their consent, or send harassing or threatening messages.
• Students should ensure that their mobile telephones are always stored in a safe and secure place.
• Mobile telephones are used at their owners’ risk and only brought to school with parent consent. The school in the event of the loss, theft or damage of any mobile telephone will accept no liability unless it can be established that the loss, theft or damage resulted from the school’s negligence.

These guidelines have been developed in accordance with Department of Education Manual CM-15: Guidelines for appropriate use of mobile telephones by students.