Cell Phone / Device Procedures

Policy Details

Michigan law and Wayne-Westland Community Schools Board Policy now require students to keep personal wireless devices put away during the school day unless otherwise stated. This change aims to reduce distractions, increase learning, and create a classroom environment where students can focus on their education and connect with their teachers and classmates.

The policy applies to personal electronic devices, including:

  • Cell phones and smartphones
  • Smartwatches
  • Smart glasses
  • Tablets and personal computers
  • Earbuds and headphones
  • Other internet-capable wireless devices

All students must keep these devices out of sight and put away during class. Devices may not be used or visible in classrooms, restrooms, or locker rooms.

The law provides exceptions for certain circumstances, including medical needs, special education accommodations outlined in an IEP or 504 plan, and emergency situations. Families should work with their school administration to make sure any approved accommodation is documented and understood.

We understand that families sometimes need to contact their children. If you need to reach your student during the school day, please contact the school's main office. School staff can communicate important information to your child.

More specific guidelines for grade levels is as follows:

Elementary Schools: 

  • Devices cannot be used at all during the school day.

Middle School (Grades 6–8)

  • All wireless communication devices (including, but not limited to, smart phones, cell phones, airpods, tablets, and smart watches) must be turned off or locked in the student's locker during the school day.
Any visible phone is subject to the following disciplinary actions:
  • First Offense: Tracked warning and parent communication
  • Second Offense: Phone brought down to the office by student or behavior coach, parent communication, student picks up phone at end of day.
  • Third Offense: Phone brought down to the office by student or behavior coach, parent communication, parent pickup.
  • Fourth Offense: Phone brought down to the office by student or behavior coach, parent communication, parent pickup, and cell phone “detention” (student brings phone to office every day and pickup at end of day for a predetermined amount of time).
  • Fifth Offense: May result in ISS/OSS. Any beyond five offenses will result in progressive discipline.

High School (Grades 9-12)

  • High school students will follow a “Pouched and Away” expectation during instructional time. This means personal devices must be secured in the designated classroom pouch and remain there during class. Students may use their devices during designated times, including before and after school, passing times, and at lunch. Students will have access to school-issued Chromebooks for instructional activities.