PARENTS / GUARDIANS:
Important changes have been made to the School Board of Highlands County cell phone/wireless communication device rules based on the signing of House Bill 1105 into Florida law.
We understand that families often rely on cell phones for communication, but please rest assured that you will be able to get important information to your child while still following Florida law.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL & MIDDLE SCHOOL
Cell phones must be powered off and out of sight in a student’s backpack, purse, or pocket for the entire school day. Specific rules for phone storage may be specified by your child’s school.
HIGH SCHOOL
Cell phones must be powered off and in the student’s backpack, purse, or pocket, out of sight during instructional time (class time). Specific rules for phone storage may be specified by your child’s school.
Excerpt from House Bill 1105
“A student may possess a wireless communications device while the student is on school property or in attendance at a school function; however, elementary and middle school students may not use a wireless communications device during the school day. High school students may not use a wireless communications device during instructional time, except when expressly directed by a teacher solely for educational purposes.”
COMMUNICATING WITH STUDENTS
All schools have telephones available, should a student need to contact family. Additionally, the family may call the school in the event of an emergency, a change in after-school pick-up plans, etc.
We know that change can be difficult, but we feel confident that we can keep the lines of communication between students and families open when needed, all while adhering to the state law.