While we have several frequently asked questions and answers below, decisions are ultimately made by referencing the new electronic device policy. You can read Board Policy JCDAF: Use of Electronic Devices by Students for further clarification.

In Paulding County schools, the use of personal electronic devices has long been prohibited for K-8 students. The new policy extends to high school students as well to comply with the new state law. One key distinction is that for K-8 students, the use of personal electronic devices is prohibited as soon as students enter a school campus. At the high school level, the use of personal electronic devices is prohibited as soon as the instructional day begins.

Students who need to contact family during the school day will be allowed to visit the school office to place a call. Families who need to contact their student during the school day may call the front office to relay a message or request a call back from their student.

Students may use their district-issued laptops to access school-related resources and instructional materials.

When a licensed physician or surgeon determines that the possession or use of an electronic device is necessary for the student’s health, students will be allowed access to their device only to monitor or manage their diagnosed medical condition. Students diagnosed with a condition that meets the parameters noted above are not allowed to utilize their device(s) outside of managing their medical condition.

In the event of a school emergency, school staff will provide students with instructions on the use of personal electronic devices. During any emergency situation, use of devices will not be considered a violation of the policy.

Schools will not collect or store devices, so students will be responsible for securing and storing electronic devices during the school day.

The new state law defines “bell-to-bell” as “the period beginning with the first bell signaling the start of instructional time and ending with the final bell signaling the conclusion of the school day and shall include all scheduled instructional time, breaks, transitions, assemblies, and other school-related activities occurring between the start and end of the school day.”

If a smartwatch has communication applications (texts, emails, phone calls), students are recommended to keep the device at home, or must have the communications functions turned off or disconnected during the entirety of the school day. Watches not used for communication or gaming are allowed to be worn during the school day.

Yes, there will be disciplinary consequences for students who do not follow this policy, with the understanding that there will be a period of adjustment as the new policy is implemented. For isolated first infractions with no other disciplinary factors involved, students may receive a warning. Continued infractions will result in progressive discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct, which may include parent contact/conference, detention, and/or in-school suspension.

The new law requires all school districts in Georgia to approve and implement a policy no later than July 1, 2027. PCSD is moving forward this year to ensure students and families have adequate time to adapt to the new requirements, and because this policy update reflects the growing consensus among child development experts and educators that minimizing digital distractions during the instructional day helps students remain engaged, improves behavior, and enhances the focus and concentration necessary for meaningful learning. The goal of this updated policy is to minimize daily distractions and create a learning environment where students can stay focused, participate fully in class, and achieve their greatest academic success.