Electronic Devices

The OCPS Code of Conduct has two sections that address electronic devices and their use in school.

Page 12 of the OCPS Code of Conduct:

Abuse of Electronic and Internet/Communication Devices

OCPS is committed to providing a safe, positive, productive and nurturing educational environment. The use of the internet or an electronic device to convey any communication, image, or illustration that causes or contributes to the intimidation, harassment, abuse, or disparagement of students and staff is strictly prohibited. This includes any such communication, image, or illustration that is prepared or originates off school grounds and adversely impacts the educational environment at school for students or staff.

The following electronic communication conveyed by internet or an electronic device is prohibited: cyber- stalking, bullying/cyber-bullying, sexting, coercion, extortion, making threats of violence or harm, or other computer related crimes that impact the educational environment. Sexting is defined as sending, forwarding, displaying, retaining, storing, or posting sexually explicit, lewd, indecent or pornographic photographs, images or messages by or on a cell phone, computer, or other electronic means during school hours or school activities on or off campus; while on OCPS property, or beyond the hours of school operation if the behavior adversely affects the personal safety or well-being of school related individuals, the governance, climate, or efficient operation of the school; or the education process or experience

Violation of the Abuse of Electronic and Internet/Communication Devices policy or any School Board adopted policy related to the use of telecommunication or electronic devices may result in discipline in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct. OCPS administrators have sole discretion to determine whether any electronic communication, image, or illustration violates this policy and the Code of Student Conduct. The provisions of School Board Policy JIC: Bring Your Own Device - Students and External Electronic, Digital or Telecommunications Devices, as amended, are specifically incorporated herein.

Any student who learns of any offensive internet content or electronic communication, image, or illustration that relates to any OCPS school, student or staff member should immediately report the matter to school staff. Each report will be evaluated to determine the appropriate action.

Page 15 of OCPS Code of Conduct deals with Cell phones:

Cell Phone Policy for Students

A student may possess a cell phone on school property, at after school activities, and at school-related functions, provided that during school hours and on a school bus, the cell phone remains off and is concealed. Violations of this policy may result in confiscation of the cell phone and/or other disciplinary actions.

If confiscated, the parent/guardian will make arrangements to pick up the cell phone from the school. At no time shall OCPS be responsible for theft, loss or damage to cell phones or other electronic devices brought onto its property.