Rationale for the Policy
The Misuse of Mobile Phones has a disruptive effect on classroom teaching and learning. There are also inherent dangers associated with the misuse of Camera/Picture Phones. Staff and pupils must be protected from any invasion of privacy or harassment associated with the misuse of Mobile Phones.
Nevertheless, the Board recognises that Mobile Phones do have a positive aspect and can be helpful as a communication tool in emergencies. The Board also acknowledges the integration of Mobile Phones into the culture of adolescents.
The school policy attempts to balance the positive against the negative and encourages the responsible use of Mobile Phones
The Board of Management of Elphin Community College has amended the school policy on Mobile Phones.
POLICY
The use of a mobile phone in school or on school grounds is prohibited. All mobile phones must be switched off in school or on school grounds. A student must not be seen in possession of a mobile phone in school or on school grounds. This policy also applies to out of school activities unless otherwise directed by the teacher in charge.
The use of a phone during the school day is unnecessary as all necessary calls may be made through the school office.
SANCTIONS
Mobile phones belonging to pupils which cause disruption to a class by ringing/silent ringing or which are being used to transmit or receive text messages or seen in possession of, will be
- Confiscated by the teacher, submitted to the main office and held until parent collects same. The student must sign a written guarantee that the phone will not be misused again.
- For a second disruption offence the phone will be held until the parent/guardian collects the phone and assures principal that the phone will not be brought back to school.
- Further infringements will be regarded as an extremely serious breach of the school code of behaviour.
- The misuse of a camera phone – taking or sending inappropriate images, or using the phone to harass – will be considered as an extremely serious discipline The board of management will respond appropriately in such cases and will have the full range of sanctions open to them. In such cases the phone will not be returned until the incident has been dealt with to the board’s satisfaction. The pupil will lose the privilege of having a mobile phone in school.
Use of mobile phones by staff
The Teaching staff are advised that Mobile Phones are not to be used in class unless expressly for school purposes or for emergency use.
Electronic Devices
Students are not permitted to have any electronic devices such as mp3 players and cameras on the school premises. They will be confiscated in accordance with the Mobile Phone arrangements. This also applies to out of school activities unless otherwise directed by the teacher in charge. As iPods are not recordable devices there use will be permitted as directed by the teacher in charge. iPads & Laptops may be used for educational purposes only.