Cell Phone Policy

Updated EHS Cell Phone and Electronic Device Policy

Due to a legislative action by the South Carolina General Assembly, the South Carolina State Board of Education passed a cell phone policy for school districts across the state.  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 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 to include being in the hallway/restroom during class. All personal devices must remain out of sight of others and be silenced during this time.

• Students may 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 or otherwise out of sight.

• Smartwatches, earbuds, headphones, smart glasses, and other smart 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 educational 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.