In order to maintain educational environments suitable for teaching and learning, Aiken County Public Schools has always limited student use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices during the school day. In September, the state Board of Education adopted a model policy aimed to create a phone-free school environment in all South Carolina schools. All school districts in South Carolina are required to implement a similar policy by January which prohibits student access to cell phones and other personal electronic communication devices during the school day.
While personal electronic devices such as cell phones and Smartwatches can be a distraction to student learning, we also recognize that the ease of communication that electronic communication devices allow between students and their parents/guardians are a comfort to many families. Additionally, before and after school communication between children and their parents/guardians is a critical matter of safety and security in many circumstances. Aiken County’s school and district leaders have worked together to identify how best to comply with this new legislative mandate while being understanding to the needs of families. A first reading of our District’s new policy was presented to the school board at last night’s meeting. The policy is viewable by clicking on the words “School Board Policy JICJ.”
The new policy will have a second reading in December and, as required, will be implemented when students return to school after winter break in January.
In preparation for this change, please note that beginning in January 2025:
Middle and high school students with personal electronic communication devices (cell phones, Smart Watches, earbuds, headphones, etc.) at school must keep them turned off and placed out of sight.
Personal electronic communication devices (cell phones, Smart Watches, earbuds, headphones, etc.) will not be allowed to be powered on and used at any time during the school day (this includes lunch and all other non-instructional times).
Wearable technology which connects to a cell phone or other personal electronic device (such as a Smart Watch) will not be able to be worn during the school day.
We recognize that this will be an adjustment, and would be grateful for your support as we implement the requirements of this new law. Please be assured that parents/guardians who need to communicate with their student during the school day and students who need to communicate with their parents/guardians will be able to do so through the front office.
Schools that have implemented similar restrictions have experienced positive classroom changes, including increased focus, attention, comprehension, engagement, and improved academic performance. Additionally, teachers and staff report enhanced face-to-face peer interactions, reduced cyberbullying, fewer fights, and a decrease in social media-induced conflict. Students overall are experiencing less stress and anxiety.
We look forward to working together to create the healthy educational environment and experience that all of our students deserve.
(Photo by Bruce Mars)