Personal Communication Device (PCD) Policy

Policy Statement

At FCHS, we prioritize the academic success and safety of our students. Personal communication devices (PCDs) may detract from the learning environment and can compromise the safety of the school; therefore, the staff will enforce the PSD Code of Conduct policy regarding the use of PCDs. PCDs include, but are not limited to: cellphones, headphones, airpods, MP3 players, smartwatches, and laptops.

Per the PSD Code of Conduct Policy, PCDs should not be visible during instructional time.

• PCDs should be silenced, turned off, or placed in focus mode during instructional time

• PCDs should not be receiving audible or vibration notifications during instructional time

• PCDs need to be put away out of sight (pockets, backpacks, lockers, cars)

Authorized Use of PCDs: 

• Students may use PCDs during passing periods, off periods, and lunch

• Students may use PCDs in the classroom only at teacher’s discretion

Hallway Expectations

Students may not use phones in hallways during their scheduled class periods. 

Classroom Expectations

Staff members will have an established procedure for student use of PCDs that clearly outlines if and when students may access PCDs in the classroom during non-instructional time. This procedure will be included in the course syllabus and regularly communicated to students. All procedures must align with this policy and the district policy.

1st instance: Warning from teacher; student asked to put away phone; documentation in Synergy.

2nd instance: Student asked to put phone in designated spot in classroom for remainder of class period; parent contact; documentation in Synergy

3rd instance: Staff contacts campus monitor to retrieve PCD and take to Deans for remainder of the day; Deans contact parent and document in Synergy

Subsequent infractions: Staff contacts campus monitor to retrieve PCD and take to Deans for remainder of day; Deans contact parent and document in Synergy; Parents pick up phone from Deans; increasing disciplinary action including “PCD Plan” to check in their PCD at the beginning of the day. 

***If a student refuses to comply with a staff request, contact campus monitors escort them to the Dean’s office. Code of Conduct will apply to any further infractions.