Personal Communication Device Restrictions Policy

All personal communication devices must be turned off and out of sight during the school day. 
This includes, but is not limited to:

• Cell phones
• Smartwatches
• Wireless earbuds (e.g., AirPods)
• Tablets
• Gaming devices
• Bluetooth headphones
• Any device used for texting, calling, social media, or streaming

Students may only use personal devices:

• Before the school day begins
• After the final bell

Personal devices must remain off and out of sight during:

• Class time
• Lunch
• Hallways and passing periods
   

In the event of an emergency on campus, families will receive official updates directly from the school. To ensure you stay informed, please make sure your contact information is current in ParentLink. During a security situation, student use of personal devices can unintentionally create challenges—such as network disruptions, noise in classrooms, or the unintentional spread of misinformation—so it's important that all communication comes through official channels.

If you need to get in touch with your student during the school day, please contact the school’s front office. Our staff will be happy to pass along your message or arrange for your student to return your call if needed. We kindly ask that you avoid calling or texting your student directly, as they are expected to keep their phones turned off and stored away during the school day.

Students with documented accommodations in a current IEP or 504 plan may be allowed to use assistive technology as specified in those plans.

A child can use their device for medical purposes only with documentation from a physician.
 

Refusing to surrender a device is considered defiance and a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. An administrator will intervene, and additional disciplinary action may be taken, including suspension or placement in an alternative education program.

Yes. Confiscated devices are kept in a locked and secure location in the campus office and are only handled by authorized staff. Devices are released only to a parent/guardian with proper ID. 

No. FWISD is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal devices, including those that are confiscated. Students and families are encouraged to leave valuables at home or use devices responsibly and in accordance with district policy.

Phones can cause frequent disruptions through notifications, messaging, and access to non-academic apps. Even when set to “silent,” they can take away from focus and engagement. Limiting phone use helps support:

• Fewer distractions
• Increased classroom participation
• Stronger peer-to-peer connections
   

Yes. All schools will follow a consistent, district-wide process to ensure the policy is communicated and enforced fairly for all students.

While at TCC students will follow the rules developed by TCC.

• Talk with your student about the importance of staying focused at school; put it away and learn today is the motto!
• Set expectations at home about responsible device use
• Remind them to leave devices in their backpack and on silent during the school day
   

Please contact your campus principal or assistant principal. They can answer questions about the policy, your student’s behavior record, or how accommodations are handled.