The Hudson School Board has officially adopted a revised Unauthorized Communication Devices Policy, following a recent state mandate requiring all school districts to implement a “bell-to-bell” cell phone ban.
The updated policy aims to create a learning environment free from distractions. It states:
“The district is committed to providing students with a learning environment free from disruptions. Use of personal communication devices for nonacademic means often leads to disruptions in the learning environment for both individual students and the classroom.”
The policy emphasizes that the entire school community—including students, teachers, staff, and coaches—should model appropriate cell phone use. It also clarifies that mobile devices may be used during emergencies that threaten the safety of students, staff, or others.
For clarity, the policy defines a personal communication device as:
“Any non-district provided internet/cellular or data-capable device that can support voice or video calls, texts, emails, or instant messages. Personal communication devices include, but are not limited to, cell phones, tablets, laptops, and smart devices. District-owned devices refer to those provided by the district for instructional use.”
Key Restrictions
Students are prohibited from using personal communication devices from the first bell until dismissal, including lunch, passing periods, and recess.
“Students participating in extracurricular activities, co-curricular activities, field trips, or other activities shall abide by the rules and consequences established by the coach, instructor, sponsor, or supervisor,” the policy states.
It further prohibits the use of devices with recording capabilities in locker rooms, bathrooms, or any location where privacy could be compromised.
While students may bring personal devices for educational purposes, misuse will trigger disciplinary action under Section D: Consequences and Violations. Devices brought to school must remain powered off and stored in lockers, backpacks, or handbags. The district will not be responsible for loss, damage, or theft.
Consequences for Violations
The revised policy eliminates verbal warnings, based on recommendations from high school administrators. Instead, consequences include:
- First Offense: Documented written warning; device secured in a designated location; referral to administration.
- Second Offense: Device held in the office for the remainder of the day; family contact.
- Subsequent Offenses: Device held for the day; administrative detention; family meeting requested.
Students are also prohibited from recording audio, video, or taking photos of others without permission. Unauthorized distribution of media may result in disciplinary action. The school reserves the right to inspect personal devices under RSA 189:70 if there is reasonable suspicion of policy violations.
Superintendent Dan Moulis noted that the district will communicate these changes before the holiday break.