Cell Phone Policy

Updated EHS Cell Phone and Electronic Device Policy

*This policy was in effect as of January 7th, 2025*

Due to a legislative action by the South Carolina General Assembly, the South Carolina State Board of Education passed a new cell phone policy for school districts across the state, which goes into effect after winter break. As a result, the Greenville County School Board of Trustees has approved an updated cell phone policy and the Eastside High School cell phone policy has changed. Our cell phone policy is in place to maximize academic instruction and limit electronic device distractions throughout the school day. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the updated cell phone policy at Eastside High School, please contact the front office and speak with your child’s administrator.

• This policy will be followed during the instructional day from 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

• Before 8:45 a.m. tardy bell and after the dismissal bell, students will not be restricted from using cell phones and other electronic devices.  

• Students cannot use cell phones or other personal electronic devices during class time. All personal devices must remain out of sight of others and be silenced during this time. This practice has been in place since the spring semester of the 2023 - 2024 school year. 

• Students will be permitted to use their cell phones during non-instructional times to include during class change and lunch as long as devices are being used for the furtherance of educational purposes and other school approved activities. 

  • Examples of these purposes/activities include, but are not limited to: reviewing grades, checking student backpack accounts, reviewing class schedules, emailing a teacher or other staff members, paying for items at Eagle Bites, or participating in a school activity.

  • Students will need to put cell phones and other electronic devices away prior to entering the classroom.

• Students should store their cell phones and other electronic devices in their book bags.

• As a result of the updated Board Policy, smartwatches, earbuds, headphones, and other device accessories cannot be worn during the school day except for the following; 

  • Students will be permitted to use earbuds or headphones during lunch if it is being used for education purposes or related to a school approved activity. 

• Failure to comply with this policy will be treated as a Cell Phone Violation. Consequences will follow these steps:

  • 1st infraction/referral: School level detention

  • 2nd infraction/referral: ISS

  • 3rd and subsequent infraction(s)/referral: OSS

• Exemptions to these restrictions will be permitted for students with health needs if authorized by IEP/504/Health Plan.

• Neither the school nor the district will be responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged electronic device or cell phone brought onto school property.