Winston-Salem Preparatory Academy

📵 Middle School Cell Phone Policy

Understanding the Rules and Expectations

Phoenixes rise when we stay focused, stay respectful, and protect learning time.

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🔥 Why This Policy Matters

The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Board of Education updated the cell phone policy to support a better learning environment. At WSPA, the goal is simple: help students stay focused, reduce distractions, and create classrooms where everyone can learn.

Too much cell phone use during the school day can lead to distractions, poor sleep, stress, and missed learning. When phones are away, students can be more present, more focused, and more successful.

💬 Think-Pair-Share

Think: How can cell phones distract students during class?

Pair: Discuss your thoughts with a partner.

Share: Volunteers share key ideas with the class.

📵 General Rules

1️⃣ No Cell Phone Use

Middle school students may not use cell phones during the instructional day.

2️⃣ Off and Out of Sight

Phones must be turned off and kept out of sight during the school day.

✅ When Can Students Use Phones?

🏫

Before or After School

Students may use phones before or after the school day.

🚌

On the Bus

Phone use is allowed unless it causes distractions or safety concerns.

👩‍🏫

Authorized Use

Teachers or administrators may allow use for health reasons, assistive technology, or learning activities.

Tip: Replace this illustration with an approved WSPA photo when available.

⚠️ Unauthorized Use Consequences

Students are expected to follow the policy. Unauthorized use will lead to progressive consequences.

1st Offense

Warning and parent contact.

2nd Offense

Student conference and parent contact.

3rd Offense

Office referral and parent contact. The device is confiscated and must be picked up by a parent/legal guardian. Failure to surrender a device is a level 3 offense. 

🚨 Important Reminders

• Phones confiscated for unauthorized use will only be returned to a parent or guardian.
• Severe violations may result in a phone ban for the rest of the school year.
• Serious infractions include cheating, bullying, or distributing inappropriate content.

👥 Group Discussion

In groups, discuss this question:

Why is it important to have consequences for unauthorized phone use?

Be ready to share your group’s best idea with the class.

📝 Phoenix Commitment

Write down 2–3 specific actions you will take to follow the cell phone policy.

1. I will keep my phone off and out of sight during the instructional day.
2. I will use technology only when a teacher or administrator gives permission.
3. I will stay focused to protect my learning and the learning of others.

🌟 Phoenix Challenge

This week, show Phoenix Pride by keeping your phone away, staying focused, and prioritizing learning.

Focused Phoenixes Rise Higher!

#PhoenixPride #WSPA #PhonesAwayLearningUp #FocusedPhoenixe