WPS Student Personal Device Policy (Bell-to-Bell)

Adopted May 12, 2026

Purpose

To protect instructional time, reduce distractions, promote student well-being, and ensure a focused learning environment, Westminster Public Schools maintains a phone-free school day.

This policy reflects a shared commitment to creating focused, learner-centered environments where attention, engagement, and meaningful learning are protected.

Definitions

Personal Communication Device (PCD): Any privately owned electronic device capable of sending or receiving voice, text, image, or video communications; connecting to wireless networks; accessing the internet; or running applications independent of district-issued systems.

This includes, but is not limited to: cell phones, smartwatches, smart glasses, tablets, e-readers, handheld gaming devices with communication capability, wearable technology, and any future or emerging technology with similar communication or connectivity functions.

Accessories connected to such devices (including earbuds, headphones, or similar peripherals) are governed by this policy.

Excluded Devices: District-issued devices used for instructional purposes are not considered Personal Communication Devices under this policy.

School Day (Bell-to-Bell): The school day begins at the first morning bell and ends at the final dismissal bell. This includes all instructional time, passing periods, recess, study hall, and lunch.

Scope

This policy applies to all students while on school premises during the school day, including during field trips, assemblies, and school-sponsored activities occurring within the school day.

General Rule: Bell-to-Bell Prohibition

Westminster Public Schools are phone-free from the first bell through the final dismissal bell.

Students may not access, display, activate, power on, or use Personal Communication Devices at any time during the school day.

All Personal Communication Devices must be powered off and stored in the designated classroom storage system or other school identified location (i.e., backpacks, lockers, pouches) at the start of the day.

Devices may not be kept on the student’s person (i.e., in pockets, or worn as accessories) during the school day.

Personal Communication Devices may not be used throughout the school day on school grounds, including classrooms, hallways, locker rooms, and restrooms, or during recess and lunch.

Accessories and Wearables

Smartwatches, wireless earbuds, headphones connected to a personal device, smart glasses, and similar technology are prohibited during the school day unless explicitly authorized under an approved exception.

Smart devices capable of messaging, calling, or internet access must be powered off and stored in accordance with this policy.

Exceptions

Exceptions may be granted only under the following circumstances:

1. Medical or Disability Needs: When documented in an IEP, 504 Plan, or health plan and approved by administration.
2. Emergency Situations: An emergency is defined as an immediate and verified threat to health or safety requiring urgent communication that cannot reasonably be addressed through existing school communication systems.
3. Instructional Use: Only when required for a specific instructional purpose that cannot reasonably be accomplished using district-issued technology, and when pre-approved in writing by the building principal for a defined purpose and duration.

Students approved for exceptions must comply with all other storage expectations when not actively using the device.

Student Discipline Procedure

• First Violation: Device secured by staff; documented warning; returned at end of school day.
• Second Violation: Device confiscated; parent/guardian notified; device returned only to parent/guardian.
• Third Violation: Device confiscated; mandatory parent/guardian conference required for return.
• Subsequent Violations: Additional disciplinary measures consistent with the Student Code of Conduct, including possible restriction on bringing devices to school.

Policy Enforcement

Staff are responsible for enforcing this policy consistently and uniformly. Failure to comply will result in progressive discipline.

Searches of Devices

Under Board policy JIH (Student Interviews, Interrogations, Searches and Arrests), portable electronic devices are considered personal effects and are subject to search by school officials consistent with reasonable suspicion standards.

Parents/guardians will be notified of searches as required by policy.

Parent Communication

Parents/guardians may contact students during the school day through the school office. Schools will relay urgent messages promptly.

Annual Notification

The District will communicate this policy to students and families annually. Schools may require acknowledgment of receipt.