The Hall County Board of Education is committed to fostering a learning environment that is free from unnecessary distractions and conducive to academic success. To achieve this goal, the use of personal electronic devices by students shall be limited during the instructional day in order to minimize disruptions, promote engagement, increase meaningful interactions, and focused learning experiences.

This policy applies to all students in kindergarten through twelfth grade while on school premises during school hours. Students in grades K–8 are not permitted to access or use personal electronic devices including but not limited to cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, e-readers, earbuds, and other devices with functionalities such as wireless communication, internet access, messaging, video recording, gaming, social media access, or data transmission during school hours.

Instructional time begins with the bell that signals the start of the first class and ends with the bell that signals dismissal from the final class, including all classes, assemblies, and other school-related instructional activities.

This policy also applies to all school-sponsored activities that occur during the school day, including field trips, athletic events, and extracurricular activities.

Students who have an approved Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Section 504 Plan, or medical plan that requires the use of a personal electronic device shall be permitted to use such devices as necessary to fulfill the requirements of that plan.

Parents or guardians should contact the school office for clarification regarding these provisions.

Any student found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action as outlined in the Hall County Schools Student Code of Conduct. The Hall County School District assumes no responsibility or liability for the theft, loss, or damage of personal electronic devices.

All users of the HCSD technology resources and facilities must agree to and sign the terms of the Hall County School District’s acceptable use agreement.

The superintendent will ensure that practices regarding the implementation of this policy will be followed as outlined in the Hall County Code of Conduct.