In accordance with South Carolina Proviso 1.103 (SDE: Anti-Bullying/School Safety), Chester County School District will prohibit the Use of Personal Electronic Devices during the School Day after Winter break in compliance with the General Appropriations Bill, H. 5100 of 2024.
Starting in January 2025, students will not be allowed to access their cell phones during the school day. This is part of a statewide initiative called "Free to Focus" that aims to improve student academic performance and reduce distractions.
The policy includes several key definitions that must be followed to ensure full compliance with the Proviso:
1. Personal electronic device, referred to as “device,” means any device utilized to access the internet, wi-fi, cellular telephone signals, or to capture images or video. This includes but is not limited to, cell phones, smart watches, tablets, and gaming devices.
2. Personal Electronic Device accessories, referred to as “device accessories,” include any wired or wireless accessory or wearable technology that connects to a device and any other accessory commonly used in conjunction with a personal electronic device.
3. School day is defined as the period of time that a student is present on the school campus from their arrival (i.e., tardy bell) until afternoon dismissal at the end of the instructional day.
4. Access is defined as viewing, holding, wearing, or otherwise using a device for the purpose of communication, internet access, gaming, recording, or any other function commonly associated with devices. During the school day, devices should be powered off and stored as directed by the school district. Exceptions will be granted for documented medical necessity.
The policy is in compliance with a new state law that prohibits students in South Carolina's public schools from using cell phones during the school day. Students can keep their phones in their backpacks or lockers, and they should turn them off and keep them out of sight.
Students who violate this policy are subject to disciplinary consequences and device confiscation.
For additional information on the policy, please visit: https://ed.sc.gov/freetofocus/