I. Purpose
This policy establishes the expectations for student non use of cell phones and related
personal technology at Lake Lure Classical Academy (LLCA). It aims to support the
school's mission and promote the best possible learning environment by improving
academic focus, supporting mental health, preventing misuse of technology, and
reducing conflict between students and staff.
II. Scope
This policy applies to all students during school hours from 7:30 am - 3:00 pm, including
during lunch, during class changes, and bathroom visits, and on school-sponsored field
trips. Exceptions apply only under specific administrative approval.
III. Mission Statement Support
By minimizing distractions and encouraging focused learning, this policy helps foster
critical thinking—the foundation of a classical education. It also nurtures civic
responsibilities and virtues like empathy, respect, and effective communication by
promoting direct social interactions. Supporting students' mental health through reduced
screen time further enables them to develop strong character and succeed
academically and personally.
IV. Policy Statement
● From 7:30 am - 3:00 pm, all student cell phones/other electronic
devices/electronic gadgets must be turned off and locked in lockers, including
bluetooth devices, headphones, earpods, any and all smart devices, etc.
● Devices must remain off and inaccessible throughout the school day.
● Lockers must be secured with student-provided locks.
● No phone access is permitted during class changes, bathroom breaks, lunch or
clubs.
● Field trips follow the same rules as regular school days.
● If students need to call home, they should use the classroom phone or go to the
front office to use the phone.
● After-school events allow phone use in accordance with the Student Code of
Conduct.
V. Exceptions
Any student with a documented medical condition that requires continued access to a
cell phone must have a health plan indicating the need to have access to the cell phone
throughout the school day.
VI. Liability Disclaimer
Cell phones and other electronic devices are the responsibility of the student. The
school and its employees are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal
electronic devices. This includes, but is not limited to, cell phones, bluetooth devices,
headphones, earpods, earbuds, smartwatches, and other wearable or wireless
communication devices. Students who bring these items to school do so at their own
risk. The school will not investigate, replace, or reimburse for any damage, theft, or loss
of such items, regardless of whether they were stored in lockers, backpacks, or
designated areas.
VII. Enforcement
● All staff are responsible for enforcement and must document violations.
● Violations must be reported using the school's behavior log or referral system.
● Failure to hand over a cell phone/electronic device to a staff member will be
deemed as insubordination and may result in suspension.
● Cell phones or other electronic devices that are used to promote hate speech,
bullying, intimidation, harassment or other inappropriate use before or after
school hours will result in investigation and depending on the results of the
investigation, consequences will be assigned including potential referral to law
enforcement.
VIII. Consequences
● Consequences of violation of policy per Official LLCA Code of Conduct
Reference
This policy aligns with current legislative efforts to improve student learning
environments, including NC Senate Bill 55, which promotes responsible technology use
in schools.
VIII. Review
Annual policy review by administration with input from staff and families.
