Student Cellphone Protocol

Electronic Devices (Cell Phones, Smart Watches, AirPods, etc.):

We need your support in reinforcing our expectations regarding electronic and wireless devices, which have become increasingly disruptive and raise safety concerns both in Lindenwold and in schools across the country. Your partnership is vital in promoting a focused and respectful learning environment.

 

·       Grades PK–8:
Students may not have personal electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, smart watches, AirPods) visible or in use during the school day, beginning the moment they step onto school property. Devices must remain off and stored in backpacks or lockers.

 

·       Students will receive one directive to put their device away. After that, the device will be confiscated, secured in the main office, and returned only to a parent or guardian. Devices will not be returned directly to students.

 

·       Refusal to turn over a device will be considered insubordination. If you prefer not to support this process, we ask that all devices be kept at home. By allowing your child to bring a device to school, you agree to follow these expectations.

 

Grades 9 – 12:

·       LHS will follow a more student-guided protocol.  For more information, please access the following documents on the Lindenwold High School website.

 

2025 – 2026 LHS Wireless Device Procedure (English)

2025 – 2026 LHS Wireless Device Procedure (Spanish)

 

Grades PK–12:

Students are not permitted to make personal phone calls during the school day without administrative approval.  Parents may not use Facetime or other video-call features to contact their child during the actual school day as students are not permitted to answer it.  Not only are there Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) concerns, students should not have their phones accessible. In addition, students may not use personal devices to record or photograph others during the school day. Only designated staff or trained student photographers may take school-related group photos for approved purposes, such as school events, educational experiences, or district positive PR communications. Any student who records or shares photos/videos of others for entertainment, to communicate a threat, for or for the purposes of bullying, harassment, or humiliation will face disciplinary action per the Code of Conduct. These actions can cause emotional and even physical harm and will not be tolerated. We appreciate your partnership in helping us create a safe, respectful, and distraction-free school environment.