Dear Parent or Guardian of Hopkins Middle School Students:
We recognize that cell phones are big part of our daily lives and provide convenience to each of us. However in the school setting, we have found cell phones to cause disruptions, distractions, interruptions, and in some instances a way to share illegal or explicit information. The text messaging takes away from the instructional time and more importantly student learning. As an Administration, we realize that cell phones can be a useful tool; however, they can be a detriment in the event of a school emergency and our safeguards and procedures for handling emergencies in a safe and efficient manner. Parents we are strongly requesting that you use the school phone number of (803) 695-3331 to get any urgent messages to your student.
If a student is found to be in possession or use of a cell phone, the phone will be confiscated, placed in a labeled envelope, and delivered to the front office. The consequences are as followed for confiscated cell phones:
1st offense:
- Cell phone held in office until the end of the day.
- Student will sign for the cell phone at the end of the day.
2nd offense:
- Cell phone held in office until the end of the next school day.
- A parent or guardian will sign for the cell phone between 2:30 – 3:15 p.m.
3rd offense:
- Cell phone will be held in the office for three (3) days.
- A parent or guardian will sign for the cell phone after a meeting with the student and principal. The student will be subject to a one (1) day in-school suspension.
Additional offenses will be considered a Level II – Intermediate Offense (2.02 Defiance of a district employee’s authority) as outlined on page 16 of the Richland One Student Code of Conduct.
Please note that our goal is to create a conducive, safe learning environment free of distractions that hinder the learning process.
Policy JCDA-R outlines the prohibited uses of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD). For more information on the policy, please visit www.richlandone.org and click on board policies and procedures under School Board.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Hopkins Middle School office at (803) 695-3331. Thank you for your continued support.
