Use of Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices

September 1, 2022

Dear NECSD students, families, faculty, and staff,

We are eager to begin a fresh start to a new school year with a focus on student learning and well-being. We each play a critical role in the success of our students. In June 2022, the district updated the policy for use of cell phones and electronic devices in schools. There is a link to the policy below for you to understand and review with your child(ren). Before reading the policy, please continue reading this letter to understand some of the reasoning for these updates. 

As parents, guardians, and family members, our students follow your lead when adjustments are made and new guidelines are put in place. Change can be difficult, but please know that we always have the best interest of our children at the center of every decision we make. Your reaction and support of this policy will influence its success. This policy provides guidelines for both students and employees in the building. We aim to cultivate a culture and climate of mutual respect that focuses on academic achievement and student growth.

The updates in this policy were the culmination of feedback and contributions by a committee of stakeholders who have the best interest of our children at heart. The draft was reviewed by additional stakeholders and adjustments were made based on their feedback. Policy updates are discussed and revised at monthly Policy Committee meetings before a final draft is presented to the Board of Education for a vote. The meeting schedules and links to view Board of Education committee meetings and/or regular meetings can be found on the district website under the Board of Education section.

The priority and purpose of this policy is to set our students up for success, free from the distraction that electronic devices often create. Students will be able to have their phones with them in the event of an emergency, however, there will be repercussions if they are seen, heard, or used during the school day. The repercussions are meant to be restorative and educational in nature - we do not look to punish or penalize our scholars as they learn and grow. 

Please click on the link below to review the policy with your child(ren). We thank you for your continued partnership in creating a successful learning environment for our scholars. If you have questions or concerns, please share them with your building principal or grade level administrator who will share that feedback with our senior team and policy committee. 

NECSD Policy 5695 - Use of Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices 

Sincerely,

Dr. Jackielyn Manning Campbell 

Superintendent of Schools

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!