Personal Communication Devices

To support an optimal learning and social environment, Waxahachie ISD requires students to refrain from using a PCD during the school day. A PCD is defined as: cell phone, smartwatch, wireless headphones, earbuds, personal computer/tablet, or any electronic device capable of digital communication. All such devices must be powered off and kept out of sight, not on the students’ person for the duration of the school day.

Campus administrators will clearly communicate expectations and emphasize the importance of maintaining a learning environment free from PCDs throughout the school year. They will monitor violations to determine the need for additional support and reinforcement.

Headphone use will be permitted only with approval from individual classroom teachers, and with school-issued devices in accordance with their specific guidelines.

1. Students must power off and put away PCDs before entering the school premises.
2. While waiting for the school doors to open, students must secure any PCD in a bag/backpack/other sealable container.
3. Students are responsible for arriving to class on time with all devices out of sight.

1. Maintain your PCD securely in your bag/backpack/other sealable container for the duration of the school day.
2. Accessing your PCD anywhere on campus during the school day is strictly prohibited.

Once off school premises, students are permitted to utilize their PCD.

If a student’s PCD is visible at all during the day:

1st Offense

• The device will be confiscated and stored securely by campus administration for the remainder of the day; and the parent or guardian will be notified.
• The student is permitted to pick up the PCD at the end of the school day.
• The offense will be recorded in Skyward.

2nd Offense

• Same as 1st Offense; however, the student’s parent or guardian will be required to pick up the PCD at the end of the school day.

3rd & Subsequent Offenses

• Same as 2nd Offense, and
• The student will be assigned other disciplinary consequences, which may include lunch detention or 1 or more days of in-school suspension (ISS).

Lack of compliance at any number offenses may escalate the consequences.

Exceptions to these guidelines are described in the WISD Student Code of Conduct.

If a PCD is in the possession of the school, the school will take appropriate efforts to keep the device appropriately stored and free from damage. However, the school specifically disclaims any liability for devices that are damaged or lost while in the school’s possession. Parents will not be compensated for devices that have been in the school’s possession in the event those devices are lost or damaged while in possession of the school.

If a PCD is not retrieved by a parent or guardian within two weeks of the school sending notice, the school shall send a second notice that specifies that the school will dispose of the device if not retrieved within 90 days of the second notice. The school may dispose of the device if not retrieved within 90 days of sending a second notice to the student’s parent or guardian.