VCSD has implemented practices that prohibit students from utilizing internet-enabled devices during the school day. We gathered information from students, staff, and families to create a policy that reinforces and expands our efforts to ensure that students are able to engage in a learning environment free from the distraction of internet-enabled personal devices.
Families will receive additional information from their school’s principal about any changes to building practices specific to all internet-enabled personal devices. Each school will provide information on how students will be expected to secure any devices in lockers and/or classroom storage units during the school day.
Below are general FAQs for parents/legal guardians, students, and staff regarding Policy 5695 Use of Internet-Enabled Devices During the School Day and Education Law Section 2803.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the primary purpose of Policy 5695 regarding internet-enabled devices?
A1: The policy aims to promote active engagement in classroom activities and minimize distractions caused by the unauthorized use of student-owned internet-enabled devices, ensuring a focused and equitable learning environment.
Q2: When is the “instructional day” defined for the purpose of this policy?
A2: As per Education Law Section 2803, the instructional day is defined as from the official start to dismissal of school, including class time, passing periods, lunch, study halls, and other structured learning times.
Q3: Can students use their personal internet-enabled devices during the instructional day on school grounds?
A3: No. In order to foster an environment where students are physically and psychologically present and positively interacting with peers and educators, students may not use personal internet-enabled devices during the instructional day on school grounds.
Q4: Are district-issued internet-enabled devices allowed during the instructional day?
A4: Yes. Internet-enabled devices supplied by the district may be used for educational purposes.
Q5: Can students use internet-enabled devices on school buses?
A5: Yes, devices may be used on the bus during transportation to and from school, as long as they do not create a distraction or safety issue for the driver or others. School buses are considered an extension of the classroom, and students must follow district behavioral standards.
Q6: What types of devices are considered “internet-enabled devices” under this policy?
A6: Internet-enabled devices include, but are not limited to: smartphones, tablets, personal laptops, smartwatches (even in school mode), and any other electronic device capable of accessing the internet (e.g., Meta Glasses).
Q7: Are there any exceptions that allow students to use personal internet-enabled devices during the school day?
A7: Yes. Personal devices may be used with proper permissions under specific circumstances, including:
- healthcare management (with prior notification and approval from the school nurse)
- translation services (as determined by school staff)
- student caregiver responsibilities (with prior notification and approval from designated school personnel)
- necessary accommodations in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan
To request an exemption, please contact your building principal. A note from a licensed healthcare provider is required for healthcare management.
Q8: Where should students store their personal internet-enabled devices upon arrival at school?
A8: Students must power off and securely store their devices as directed by the building procedures.
Q9: What is the district’s responsibility for stored personal devices?
A9: The district shall not take any responsibility or liability for stored items. The most secure option is to not bring the device into school.
Q10: How can parents/legal guardians contact their students during the school day?
A10: If a parent/legal guardian needs to contact a student during the school day, they should call the main office, which will deliver a message to the student.
Q11: How can students contact their parents/legal guardians during the school day?
A11: A designated phone will be available in the main office, counseling office, assistant principals’ office, or nurses’ office for use with staff approval.
Q12: What is the approach taken when a personal internet-enabled device is used inappropriately?
A12: A restorative approach will be taken, focusing on learning and restoring focus in the classroom. This may involve:
- A conversation with the student.
- Temporarily holding the device.
- Connecting with parents/legal guardians.
Q13: Can a student be suspended solely for accessing internet-enabled devices in violation of this policy?
A13: No, the district is prohibited from suspending a student solely for accessing internet-enabled devices in violation of this policy. Disciplinary consequences, if warranted, will be rendered in accordance with the Code of Conduct.
Q14: How will this policy be communicated to the school community?
A14: This policy will be reviewed annually and communicated to all students, parents/legal guardians, and staff through the district website and other appropriate building communication channels.
Q15: Will the district report on the enforcement of this policy?
A15: Beginning September 1, 2026, and annually thereafter, the district will publish an annual report on its website detailing enforcement of this policy in the prior school year, including non-identifiable demographic data and analysis of any demographic disparities in enforcement.