Cell Phone and Personal Electronic Devices Policy

The purpose of the Cell Phone and Personal Electronic Devices policy is to foster a focused, engaging and relational learning environment at Crescent School. By minimizing distractions caused by personal electronic device usage during school hours, we aim to enhance academic performance, promote face-to-face interactions, support students’ emotional well-being, and ensure a respectful and productive community atmosphere.

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Definition of Devices

For the purposes of this policy, these devices (PEDs) include but are not limited to cell phones, smartphones, smartwatches, wireless headphones connected to the Internet, smartglasses, and any other electronic communication devices capable of texting, calling, internet access, or any other form of digital communication.
Policy Statement

All Crescent students are prohibited from carrying cell phones and/or PEDs during the school day. Cell phones and PEDs brought to school must be stored in students’ lockers. Students contravening this policy will have their devices confiscated.

Policy Guidelines

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Storage Requirements
- Upon arrival at school, students must store their cell phones and PEDs in their lockers.
- Cell phones and PEDs must remain in lockers for the entire duration of the school day.
Prohibited Areas and Times
- Classrooms: Cell phones and PEDs are not permitted during class time, including any form of lesson or instructional period.
- Community Time: Cell phones and PEDs are not to be used during designated community times, such as assemblies, Mentor Groups, and House or club meetings.
- Dining Hall: Cell phones and PEDs are strictly prohibited to encourage social interaction during meals.
- Hallways: Students are not allowed to use their cell phones and PEDs while in the hallways to encourage face-to-face interaction, prevent distractions, and ensure a smooth flow of student traffic.
Emergency Situations
- In the event of an emergency, students may use their cell phones and PEDs to contact the appropriate individual or service to respond to the situation (e.g. 911).
- Parents needing to reach their children during school hours should contact the school reception directly.
Consequences of Violation
- First Offence: The cell phone and/or PED will be confiscated and can be retrieved from the Head of School’s office at the end of the day. A warning will be issued.
- Second Offence: The cell phone and/or PED will be confiscated and can be retrieved from the Head of School’s office at the end of the day; the student’s parent or guardian will be notified by the Head of School’s office.
- Third Offence: The student will face additional disciplinary actions, which may include detention or suspension; a meeting with parents or guardians will be required.
Exceptions
Students may bring personal mobile devices to school (they must be locked in their lockers during school time) and use them outside of instructional time (i.e. to and from school). However, personal devices are strictly restricted unless explicitly permitted under one of the following three circumstances:
- Educational Purposes: Classroom educators retain sole discretion to permit PMD use if required to conduct research or access educational websites as part of a lesson plan.
- Health and Medical Purposes: Permitted if necessary to support, monitor, or regulate a health condition. Parents/guardians must submit a written request to the designated school contact at the start of the year outlining the medical necessity. A physician’s signature is not required.
- Learning Needs: Permitted if part of an official accommodation plan for special education needs or protected grounds under the Human Rights Code. Requests must be submitted in writing, detailing the specific restrictions or accommodations required, without specifying a medical diagnosis.
Crescent may permit the use of cell phones and/or PEDs during field trips, competitions, and co-curricular activities for safety and communication purposes.