Phones and Connected Devices
Devices capable of texting, voice communication, internet access, email, navigation, entertainment, photos, or video.
Elementary Student Guidelines
Wireless Communication Devices
Rochester Community Schools has established expectations for student use of personal wireless communication devices during the school day.
Download the Full GuidelinesElementary School Expectation
Personal devices may not be used during the school day.
Elementary students are not permitted to use personal wireless communication devices or wearable technology during the school day.
What This Includes
Personal wireless and wearable devices
The guidelines apply to devices that can communicate, connect to the internet, provide entertainment, capture media, or access digital services.
Wearable Technology
Smartwatches, personal Bluetooth earbuds or headphones, and artificial intelligence eyewear.
Other Personal Devices
Other personal electronic devices that meet the district definition of a wireless communication device.
Important Exceptions
Some devices may still be used when specifically authorized.
Medically necessary devices
District-owned devices, including school-issued tablets and laptops
Devices designated by the district for instructional purposes
Devices used for special education programming or approved accommodations
Lesson-specific use at the limited and direct discretion of a classroom teacher
Emergency situations, provided device use does not interfere with emergency protocols or first responders
When Expectations Are Not Followed
Progressive responses
The district guidelines outline increasingly serious responses when a student does not comply.
First Offense
A verbal warning or direction to put the device away.
Second Offense
The device may be confiscated by a teacher or administrator until the end of the school day.
Repeated Offenses
A parent or guardian may be required to retrieve the device. Additional responses may include a parent-teacher conference and/or a Code of Conduct infraction.
A helpful family reminder
Families are encouraged to review these expectations with students before sending a personal device to school. The complete district guidelines provide the full definitions, exemptions, and expectations for all learning levels.
Read or download the complete Wireless Communications Device Guidelines