O’Connor Academy

Personal Electronic
Device (PED) Policy
 
Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs)
 
PEDs are defined as privately-owned devices that are used
for audio, video, text communication, and any other
technology-based device that is used to play video games,
take pictures or videos.
 
PED devices include, but are not limited to:
 
Cellular phones
 
Hand-held entertainment devices (video games, cassette players, CD
players, compact DVD players, iPods, iPads, tablets, laptops, etc.)
 
Wireless hand-held or portable information technology that can be
used for word processing, internet access, image capturing or
recording, etc.
 
PEDs cannot be used in any class or while a
student is completing a work study
assignment between the hours of 7:45 - 1:50.
  
PEDs need to be silenced or turned off and
out of sight.
 
Education law and the Dignity for All Students
Act (DASA) prohibit the use of PEDs by
students to take pictures, audio or video
recordings on school property.
 
PEDs shall not be used in any way that
threatens, humiliates, harasses or intimidates
people.
 
Personal speakers are not allowed on school
property.
 
 
Students may use their PEDs
in the hallway between
classes during the three
minute passing time, but they
may not be used with
speakers – headphones or
ear-buds only.

Students are allowed to check

their phones between classes.
 
Students who take laps as
outlined in their Individualized
Education Program (IEP)
cannot use their PEDs while
taking laps.
 
Students can use their PEDs in the cafeteria
while eating breakfast and lunch.
 What happens when a student violates
the PED policy?
First Offense: The student will meet with
their case manager or counselor to review
the PED policy and student expectations.

Second offense: The student’s case manager or counselor

will contact the parent/guardian to inform them that the student
has violated the O’Connor PED policy twice. The student will
serve one period of in-school suspension (ISS).
Third offense: The student will be required to turn in their PED
to an administrator for at least one week. The administrator will
call home to inform the parent/guardian that the student has
violated the PED policy three times. The student will serve
three periods of ISS.
 
Continued non-compliance may result in out-of-school
suspension.
 Questions & Answers
  Can students use their PEDs in any class?
No. The PED policy clearly states that students cannot use their PEDs in class, even if
they have completed their assignment for that particular class period.
 
Can students use their PED’s instead of a school computer?
No. Any technology that is used in class will be provided by the school.

Can students use their PEDs while taking laps?

No. Some students are allowed to take laps if their IEP lists laps as an accommodation. However,
they are not allowed to use their PEDs while taking laps because it has proven to be a distraction.
PED usage in the hallway during class periods is a violation of the policy.
 
What if a parent/guardian needs to contact their child during the school day?
Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact the main office if they need to contact their child
during the school day. Texting your child during the school day is discouraged.
 
What if a student refuses to turn in their PED after violating the policy three or more times?
The student’s administrator will contact the parent/guardian to develop a clear plan that may
include not allowing the student in the building if he/she has a PED. The student is expected to
follow the plan that is agreed upon by their parent/guardian and the school.