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Technology & Devices

Students and Personal Devices Plain Language Summary

Link to Policy 5695: Students and Personal Electronic Devices

To support a safe, focused, and distraction-free learning environment, Clinton Central School District has adopted a new personal electronic device Policy 5695 in alignment with the New York State Distraction-Free Schools Law. This policy is designed to minimize classroom distractions, promote academic focus, and foster social connection at school.

Definition of “Personal Electronic Device”

Personal Electronic Devices include—but are not limited to—phones, smartwatches, wireless earbuds, tablets, e-readers, music players, voice recorders, and internet-connected accessories. Devices used for texting, calling, browsing, or taking pictures are included.

Personal Electronic Device Expectations

Elementary School (PK-5):

  • Devices are not permitted at school or on school buses. Devices should be left at home.

Middle & High School (6–12):

  • Devices must be turned off and stored in lockers from arrival until dismissal (7:48 - 2:15). This includes between classes, lunch, study halls, bathrooms, locker rooms, detention, and ISS.
  • Lockers should be locked during the school day, as the school is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal electronic devices.
  • Students may use personal electronic devices on the bus as long as the use is non-disruptive and follows the Code of Conduct.

Permitted Communication During the Day

To reach your child during the instructional day, please call the school office. Students should not use personal devices to text or call home during the school day.

Students are able to use district phones located in the main office during the instructional day.

Consequences for Violations

Consequences of the Personal Electronic Device policy will generally follow the outline below:

Offense During Instructional Day Consequence At the End of the Day
1st Device is confiscated and stored in the office Written Warning Device can by picked up by student
2nd Device is confiscated and stored in the office Lunch Detention Device must be picked up by parent/guardian
3rd Device is confiscated and stored in the office After-School Detention; Reflection Assignment on digital citizenship and screen time impact; Parent/Guardian Conference required Device must be picked up by parent/guardian
Further Device is confiscated and stored in the office Support Plan may be developed with counselor or administrator; student may be required to turn in cell phone to the office at the start of the day and assigned to complete a Digital Awareness Course Device must be picked up by parent/guardian