Cellphone Policy

Sunset Cellphone Policy 

As we continue to foster a focused and productive learning environment at Sunset High School, we are introducing an updated Cell Phone Protocol for the Spring 2025 semester. This protocol has been designed with the primary goal of reducing distractions in the classroom, promoting student engagement, and supporting academic success.

Purpose of the Cell Phone Protocol
We understand that mobile devices are an integral part of students' lives; however, excessive phone use during instructional time can detract from academic focus and hinder meaningful face-to-face communication. Our new protocol aims to strike a balance by limiting phone usage during class, encouraging time management, and ensuring that students can remain fully engaged in their studies.

Key Features of the New Protocol:

1. Cell Phone Collection:
   • Upon entering the classroom, students will be required to place their phones in a designated slot in a cell phone caddy assigned to them by the teacher.
   • Phones should be powered off or set to silent/vibrate mode.
2. Classroom Phone Usage:
   • Phone usage will only be allowed for educational purposes when explicitly permitted by the teacher.
   • Teachers will display a sign indicating when phone use is authorized.
   • Students will retrieve their phones at the end of class in an orderly fashion.
3. Consequences for Non-Compliance:
   • First Violation: Verbal warning, temporary confiscation for the remainder of the class, and log entry in the Sunset Cell Phone Tracker System.
   • Second Violation: Confiscation for the day, and a phone call to the parent/guardian from the Dean of Students.
   • For repeated violations: phones will be confiscated and a parent/guardian must pick them up, with increasing fees: $5 for the third violation, $10 for the fourth, and $15 for the fifth.
   • Refusal to Comply: Any student who refuses to comply with the protocol will face disciplinary consequences as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.

Accountability and Monitoring:
Teachers will log phone violations through the Cell Phone Tracker System, monitored by the Dean’s office. This system will allow for consistent enforcement and timely communication with parents regarding any repeated violations.

Communication and Support:
In the event of an emergency where a parent needs to contact a student, the parent should call the front desk office. The student will be informed and instructed to retrieve their phone and contact the parent. If a student needs to make a call to their parent, they must first request permission to visit the Dean of Students' office and use the phone there.

We are committed to keeping both students and parents informed. The protocol has been clearly communicated to students during grade level assemblies, advisory classes and we will send periodic reminders via announcements and classroom discussions. Additionally, we encourage you to review this protocol with your student to ensure a smooth transition.

We believe this protocol will enhance the learning environment and help students develop responsible phone usage habits. We appreciate your cooperation and support in helping us maintain a focused classroom environment that promotes academic success. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Dean of Students Office. Thank you for your continued partnership in your child's education.

Sincerely,
David Lee
Principal
Sunset High School