WHS School Board Policy JICJ

Modified for Evening School, 8/21/25

Unauthorized Communication Devices 

 

A recent New Hampshire law includes a “bell-to-bell” cell phone ban policy (2025 N.H. Laws Chapter 141. Section 455 141:455).  The policy “prohibits all personal communication devices used by students from when the first bell rings to start instructional time until the dismissal bell rings to end the academic school day…”

The intent of this law is clear: to protect learning time, reduce distractions, and support student well-being. Research has shown that reducing phone use during the school day helps students focus more deeply, engage with peers more fully, and manage stress more effectively.  A video outlining this change can be viewed at Cell Phone Law.

Students may possess a cell phone and privately owned electronic devices, they must always remain off and out of sight during the school day (7:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.).  WHS Evening School hours are 5:30-8:30 PM. Personal communication devices are defined as any non-district provided internet/ cellular-capable device that can support voice or video calls, texts, emails, or instant messages. Personal communication devices include, but are not limited to: cellphones, tablets, laptops, iPads, earbuds, headphones, e-readers (e.g. Kindle), electronic games and smartwatches.

 

Evening School students may access their cell phones during break, 7-7:15 PM, when outside of the building.