Isn't this the same policy that is outlined in the Student Handbook given at the beginning of the year? Is it just being reinforced?

I believe you're correct, momof2.

Cell Phone Policy:
Student possession and use of cellular phones, pagers, and other electronic signaling devices on school campuses and school buses; at school-sponsored activities; and while under the supervision and control of school district employees are permitted under certain circumstances.

Students may use these devices before and after school. Cell phones must be kept
out of sight and turned off during the instructional day. Cell phones may not be used on school buses. Unauthorized use of such devices disrupts the instructional program and distracts from the learning environment.

Unauthorized use of a cell phone is grounds for confiscation of the device by school officials, including but not limited to classroom teachers, and may lead to further disciplinary action. Administrators shall have the discretion to confiscate and/or fine students up to $20.00 for violations of this policy. School personnel shall not be responsible for loss or theft of the wireless communication devices.

First Offense: Students will have their phones confiscated and returned at the end of the school day. The student will be reminded of the policy against usage of cell phones in school.

Second Offense: Cell phone will be turned in to the principal or the principal’s
designee. Parent may pick-up the phone after three (3) school days or parent conference is held to sign a contract concerning phone policy.

Third offense: Cell phone will be turned in to the principal or the principal’s
designee. Parents may pick-up the phone after five (5) school days or pay a $10.00 fine for immediate return of cell phone.

Each subsequent offense: Cell phone will be turned in to the principal or principal’s
designee. Parent may pick-up the phone after five (5) school days or a $20.00 fine
for the immediate return of cell phone.

If the parent/guardian is adamant that he or she cannot allow the phone to be held
for the number of days listed in the proposed procedures or the fine be paid, then
the parent/guardian chooses for his or her son/daughter/ward to accept a three (3)
day in-school suspension in lieu of the phone being held. Should the student not
have any more available visits to ISS then the three (3) days will be out of school
suspension.
The building principal reserves the right to assign other consequences based on the severity of the offense.

http://www.bryancountynews.net/news/a...

http://www.bryancountynews.net/news/a...

It is the same policy that has been in effect all year. Parents/students always want to say they didn't know and act shocked when policies are enforced. Parents/students are required to sign/return the page that states they have read/understand the handbook policies, but obviously they sign it without reading it, or think it won't apply to them when the time comes. Imagine that the rules actually apply to everyone, huh??

the rules clearly state what is acceptable. why should thge school have to send a letter to you explaining the rules YET ANOTHER TIME? take responsibility for yourself and your children! stop acting like they are picking on your little spoiled brat! your spoiled kid can live without a phone glued to its head for the few hours it is at school trying to get an education.
oh, how i long for the days when there was no such thing as a cell phone. how did we ever survive??????????