Cell Phone/Mobile Devices Policy

Dear BHS Families,

This letter is to alert you to changes in our campus cell phone policy and associated discipline. After our first year of prohibiting cell phone use in classrooms, we’ve had the chance to review data and evaluate what went right and what challenges we faced. That evidence, combined with the new Northshore School District student use of personal mobile devices policy, has led us to reevaluate discipline surrounding student cell phone use.

As before, all students will be expected to stow personal devices, including smart watches and earbuds, in each teacher’s safe storage area from the beginning of each class to the end of each class. Phones cannot remain in backpacks, pockets, or spaces other than the teacher storage area. The only device students will be permitted to use during class time is their school-issued laptop. They will, however, retain free use of their phones and earbuds during passing times, nutrition break, and lunches. (The district policy addresses use of health-monitoring devices.)

All our students will have ample notice of the updated discipline process in the first two days of school. Teachers, administrators, and staff will enforce the following consequences starting no later than Monday, September 8th. By Monday, the following steps will be taken:

  • First Violation
    • Phone and/or personal devices will be confiscated by a Campus Supervisor and safely stored in the Main Office until the end of the day
    • Student will be issued a 2-hour Saturday School to be served at the next possible date
  • Repeat Violations
    • Phone and/or personal devices will be confiscated by a Campus Supervisor and safely stored in the Main Office until the end of the day
    • Either 2- or 4-hour Saturday School will be issued based on the individual student’s situation
  • Saturday School will continue to be assigned for each subsequent violation
  • IMPORTANT NOTE: Issued discipline takes precedence over any school athletic, club or music event

We understand you may have concerns about being able to reach your children during school hours. In case of emergency or the need to get an immediate message to your Cougar, feel free to call the Main Office at 425-408-7000. Remember, students are still permitted to use their cell phones during passing times, nutrition break, and lunches. These breaks are great opportunities for Cougars to check for messages. Additionally, each classroom, office, and common area is equipped with landlines in order to assist with effective communication.

Sincerely,

BHS Administrative Team