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Student Use of Cell Phones & Other Personal Electronic Devices
The purpose of this policy is to establish clear, consistent, and developmentally appropriate expectations for student possession and use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices during the school day and at school-sponsored activities in compliance with C.R.S. 22-1-149. At Colorado Early Colleges (CEC), this policy supports the school’s mission to prepare all students for success in school, college, careers, and life by promoting focused learning environments, responsible technology use, and habits of self-management that are essential for postsecondary success. While personal electronic devices may serve educational, communication, and safety purposes, their use must be structured to protect instructional time, support student well-being, and ensure equitable access to learning for all students—No Exceptions. No Excuses.
Definitions
“Electronic Device” includes, but is not limited to, cell phones, smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, headphones or earbuds, laptops, e-readers, portable gaming devices, and similar personal technology.
“Instructional Time” means any period during which direct instruction, guided learning, assessment, or supervised academic activities are taking place, as defined by the school schedule.
General Provisions
Students may possess personal electronic devices on school property and during school-sponsored activities. Use of personal electronic devices is permitted only under the conditions outlined in this policy and must be consistent with maintaining a safe, respectful, and academically focused learning environment.
Personal electronic devices may be used:
- Before and after the school day
- During instructional time only with explicit permission from the classroom teacher
- When required by an Individualized Education Program (IEP), Section 504 Plan, medical plan, or other documented accommodation
- During emergencies or safety-related situations, as directed by school personnel
Students may not use personal electronic devices:
- During instructional time without authorization
- To engage in academic dishonesty or other misconduct, including harassment, bullying, or intimidation
- To record, photograph, or livestream any individual without explicit consent and staff authorization
- In locations where privacy is reasonably expected, including restrooms and locker rooms
- In any manner that disrupts instruction, compromises safety, or violates school rules
Middle School (6-8) Expectations
Personal electronic devices must remain powered off or silenced and stored out of sight for the duration of the school day. Device use is permitted only for approved exceptions outlined in this policy.
High School (Grades 9–12) Expectations
Personal electronic devices may be used during lunch, passing periods, and designated non-instructional or off periods. Devices must be powered off or silenced and stored out of sight during instructional time unless explicitly authorized by staff.
Teacher Discretion and Classroom Management
Teachers and school staff may establish additional classroom-specific expectations related to device use provided such expectations are:
- Clearly communicated to students
- Developmentally appropriate
- Applied consistently
- Not in conflict with this policy, student rights, or applicable law
Equity Considerations
The school will not discipline, penalize, or disadvantage students based on lack of access to personal electronic devices. No instructional activity shall require the use of student-owned devices when appropriate school-provided alternatives are not available.
Emergency and Safety Use
In emergency or safety-related situations, students may be permitted or directed by school personnel to use personal electronic devices to contact parents, guardians, or emergency services when appropriate. The school maintains established procedures to ensure timely communication during emergencies.
Disciplinary Measures
Inappropriate or unauthorized use of personal electronic devices may result in progressive discipline, which may include:
- Verbal reminder or redirection
- Temporary confiscation of the device for the remainder of the class period or school day
- Parent or guardian notification
- Assigned consequences consistent with the school’s code of conduct
- Repeated violations may result in additional restrictions or administrative intervention
All disciplinary actions shall be applied consistently, respectfully, and in accordance with due process. This policy does not authorize permanent confiscation or blanket prohibition of device possession.
Parental Rights
Parents or guardians may request reasonable limitations on their child’s use of personal electronic devices during the school day. The school will work collaboratively with families to honor such requests when feasible and appropriate.
Legal Compliance
- C.R.S. § 22-1-149 (Electronic devices in school settings – policy required)
Questions?
CEC encourages staff, students, parents, and all members of the CEC community to become familiar with our policies and procedures. For questions or comments regarding our policies and procedures, please contact:
Melissa Talan, MBA
Executive Office Administrator
SECTION: Students
Student Use of Cell Phones and Other Personal Electronic Devices
Approved: 4/2026