{"id":354975,"date":"2016-04-04T11:01:45","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T16:01:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/education\/student-conduct-and-discipline\/codes-of-conduct-technology-use-and-cell-phone-policies.html"},"modified":"2023-11-09T11:27:32","modified_gmt":"2023-11-09T16:27:32","slug":"codes-of-conduct-technology-use-and-cell-phone-policies","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/education\/student-conduct-and-discipline\/codes-of-conduct-technology-use-and-cell-phone-policies.html","title":{"rendered":"Codes of Conduct: Technology Use and Cell Phone Policies"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Codes of Conduct: Technology Use and Cell Phone Policies<\/h1>\n
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\n By Jade Yeban, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Susan Mills Richmond, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last reviewed\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

The internet has vastly expanded educational resources and opportunities for students and teachers. Students use the internet as a research tool and a means of communicating. In this digital era, the use of technology has become a significant part of education.<\/p>\n

Public schools create specific guidelines about technology use. These rules help promote a safe and productive learning environment. These guidelines are often included in the student code of conduct<\/a>. They outline the appropriate usage of electronic devices within the school setting. Some rules may also extend outside of campus with the use of social media.<\/p>\n

This article provides a brief overview of technology policies in the student code of conduct.<\/p>\n

Student Code of Conduct: Technology Use<\/h3>\n

School administrators and the board of education create policies allowing technology use. This can include using laptops and other electronic devices for educational purposes. These guidelines also outline the limitations of internet access during school hours. These rules help prevent classroom distractions and misuse.<\/p>\n

While technology offers learners immense benefits, misuse can disrupt the educational program. As a result, there may be harm to the school community<\/a>. Disciplinary action may be taken against students who violate these rules. Infractions could include unauthorized entry into school databases. This may be to access or alter student information. Using school-provided devices for non-educational activities can also violate the code.<\/p>\n

Many school districts provide students with their email accounts. Some educators believe email has become essential for students. They argue students should be trusted with the responsibility of an email. Software programs that filter email and websites are often installed on school devices.<\/p>\n

Acceptable Use Policies in the Student Code of Conduct<\/h3>\n

School districts offering email accounts to students establish acceptable-use policies. This helps maintain good "netiquette" among students. An acceptable-use policy sets rules for when and how students can use the internet and email. Typically, students are expected to use appropriate language. They must avoid off-limit sites and chat rooms. They also must refrain from misuse of email, such as spamming, which is sending unsolicited emails to hundreds of email addresses at a time.<\/p>\n

Students are also prohibited from using internet information inappropriately. For example, students may not download term papers or plagiarize from websites. Students are advised that the school has the right to review all electronic correspondence. Anyone violating those rules can be disciplined. A student’s internet privileges can be revoked for serious or repeat offenses. Both students and parents are usually required to sign onto the acceptable use policy.<\/p>\n

Student Code of Conduct: Cell Phone Use<\/h3>\n

The use of cell phones during school activities is generally limited. This helps to prevent disruption in the learning environment. While policies vary, most schools allow students to carry cell phones. However, they may make students turn off or silence their phones during school hours.<\/p>\n

In cases where cell phones are used inappropriately, disciplinary action may occur. There may be more serious consequences for cell phone use that infringes on student rights. Threatening others’ well-being can result in harsh punishments.<\/p>\n

Student Code of Conduct: Social Media Policy<\/h3>\n

Social media policies aim to protect students from harmful online interactions. These policies also protect school personnel and school staff, and are put into place to prevent online interactions from affecting the school environment. These guidelines and provisions encourage respectful communication and prohibit cyberbullying. They may discourage sharing private phone numbers or personal details without consent.<\/p>\n

Violations of social media policies can lead to disciplinary action. This is regardless of whether the post was made off-campus or in school during the school day. These violations can adversely affect the school setting or other educational services.<\/p>\n

Cyberbullying<\/h3>\n

Federal and state laws, such as Title IX<\/a>, protect students from harassment. This includes protecting students from cyberbullying<\/a> based on sexual orientation, gender, or other protected classifications. Cyberbullying can cause significant mental health issues. Cyberbullying can also disrupt the student’s ability to learn.<\/p>\n

School officials can issue behavior interventions when notified of such behavior. Staff members might also issue referrals for special education. Other schools, organizations, laws, and regulations might refer to these students using the outdated term \u201cspecial needs.\u201d But, the preferred terminology is education services for students with disabilities.<\/p>\n

The school board may also involve law enforcement in cases of severe harassment. Law enforcement may intervene to prevent bodily injury.<\/p>\n

Violations of the Student Code of Conduct<\/h3>\n

Elementary school and middle school students might have different procedures for violations. Likewise, middle school students and high school students may have differing procedures. Generally, the procedure includes:<\/p>\n