Studies have shown that students who are free from the distraction of a smartphone are more engaged as learners and more present in social situations with peers. For this reason, we are asking that students keep phones in their lockers for the duration of the school day. Phones will continue to be allowed in the building, and students may use them from the time they get to school until the first bell at 8:10. At 8:10, phones should be placed in their lockers to be retrieved at the end of the day. Since we now have Google Chromebooks in every classroom, there is no longer a need for students to bring their own devices to class for internet use. 

Should you need to communicate with your student during the school day, you may always call the office and we can relay any urgent messages to your student. Likewise, students may use the phone in the front office to call home if need be (again urgent situations only). 

As with any policy, we will clearly communicate expectations to students. However, if students choose to not follow the expectation of keeping their cell phone put away during the school day, it will be confiscated and turned in to the front desk to be picked up after school. DISD School Board has adopted the following regarding use of devices at school (FNCE Local):

An authorized District employee may confiscate a personal telecommunications device, including a mobile telephone, used in violation of applicable campus rules. A confiscated personal telecommunications device shall be released for a fee determined by the Board. In accordance with the student handbook, the student or the student’s parents may retrieve the device after paying the fee.

Here is what our handbook says about cell phones that are confiscated:

Unauthorized use of cell phones can result in confiscation of the phone and a $15 fee, per board policy.  When the phone is turned into the office the following actions will be taken:            

• First offense- warning from office
• Second offense- student may pick up with $15
• Third offense-parent must pick up phone with $15
• Fourth offense-parent must pick up phone with $15 and meet with an administrator
• Fifth offense-parent must pick up phone with $15, meet with an administrator, and other student discipline will be assigned 

At Harpool Middle School, we want to do our best to give your students the best education possible. Our fantastic teachers strive everyday to help students achieve success, and Harpool has shown that to be true in years past. We sincerely believe that putting this policy in place will help our students continue that legacy of success. Thank you and have a great school year.