To support school environments in which students can fully engage with their classmates, their teachers, and instruction, the Board of Education of Euclid City Schools  has determined that the use of cell phones by students during school hours will be limited. 

The  intention of this expectation is to strengthen the Euclid City Schools focus on learning, in alignment with our mission to create an individualized, innovative, and effective learning environment in which all students will strive for academic success and holistic well-being.

Research shows that student use of cellphones in schools has negative effects on student performance and mental health. Cell phones distract students from classroom instruction, resulting in smaller learning gains and lower test scores. Increased cell phone use has led to higher levels of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders in children. 

Department of Education & Workforce: Negative impact of cell phones on student learning

The anxious generation: Negative impact of cell phones on a student's mental health

These expectations  apply to the use of cell phones and headphones by students while on school property in ALL instructional settings. Elementary and middle school students will not be allowed to use their cell phones during school hours anywhere in the building.  At Euclid High School students will be able to check their phone in non instructional areas.  Euclid High School students will not be allowed to take pictures, videos or listen to music during school hours.

Nothing in this policy prohibits a student from using a cell phone for a purpose documented in the student’s individualized education program developed under Chapter 3323 of the Ohio Revised Code or a plan developed under section 504 of the "Rehabilitation Act of 1973," 29 U.S.C. 794.

A student may use a cell phone to monitor or address a health concern.

Students shall keep their cell phones in a secure place, such as the student’s locker, a closed backpack, or a storage device provided by the district, at all times when cell phone use is prohibited.

If a student violates this policy, a teacher or administrator shall take the following steps progressively:

• Give the student a verbal warning and require the student to store the student’s cell phone in accordance with this policy.

• Securely store the student’s cell phone in a teacher- or administrator-controlled locker, bin, or drawer for the duration of the class or period.

•  Place the student’s cell phone in the school’s central office for the remainder of the school day.

• Place the student’s cell phone in the school’s central office to be picked up by the student’s parent or guardian.

• Schedule a conference with the student’s parent or guardian to discuss the student’s cell phone use.

• Repeated violations will follow the consequences listed in the student discipline handbook.