Cell Phone Policy
Cell Phones and Electronic Devices
Pacifica High School is committed to maintaining a focused and respectful learning environment. To support student engagement and minimize distractions, the following policy regarding cell phones and personal electronic devices is in place for all students. In compliance with AB 3216 - Phone-Free Schools Act.
Classroom Expectations
- All personal electronic devices (including cell phones, earbuds, smartwatches, and smart glasses) must be set to silent and stored out of sight (in backpacks or designated areas) during instructional time.
- Instructional time includes, but is not limited to: lectures, discussions, group activities, independent work, assessments, athletic practices, and school events.
- Unauthorized use of devices during instructional time may result in disciplinary action.
Permitted Use
- Students may use devices before school, during nutrition and lunch breaks, and after school.
- Students with documented medical or translation needs requiring device access must submit appropriate documentation to the school administration. Approved requests will receive reasonable accommodations.
- In the event of an emergency, students may access their phones as needed.
Responsible Use
- Students are expected to use technology responsibly and ethically at all times.
- The use of devices for bullying, harassment, or intimidation is strictly prohibited per Board Policy 6131.2.
Progressive Discipline for Violations
- First Offense: Verbal warning and reteaching of policy by the teacher. May be documented in the Student Information System (SIS).
- Second Offense: All consequences of the first offense, with possible contact to parent/guardian by the teacher.
- Third Offense: All prior consequences; student conference with a counselor, administrator, and teacher to create a compliance plan. Continued violations may result in a parent meeting and loss of privileges.
- Fourth Offense: All prior consequences; device will be confiscated and returned only to the parent/guardian .
- Fifth Offense: All prior consequences; student and parent/guardian must meet with an administrator to discuss reasons for non-compliance before the device is returned. Loss of co-curricular privileges may apply.
All incidents may be recorded in the SIS by staff members.
Liability Notice:
Students who bring mobile devices to school or school-related events do so at their own risk.
The school and district are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal devices.
Unplug and Unlock Your Potential
In alignment with the Phone-Free Schools Act (AB 3216) and Education Codes 48901.5 and 48901.7, the Oxnard Union High School District is adopting Board Policy 5131.8 to minimize distractions and promote a more focused, engaging learning environment for all students.
What’s Changing?
To support student success, all personal electronic devices including cell phones, earbuds, smartwatches, and other electronics must be on silent and out of sight during instructional time. Classrooms are now No-Scroll Zones, designed to keep students engaged and present.
When are devices allowed?
Devices may only be used during designated breaks (nutrition/lunch), in emergencies, or with prior approval for medical or translation needs (with documentation provided to school administration).
Implementation:
- Teachers will review the policy at the start of the year and after each break
- Signage and reminders will be posted across campuses
- Inappropriate use may result in confiscation and return only to a parent/guardian
- A progressive discipline policy will be enforced
Let’s work together to create distraction-free schools where students can unlock their full potential.
For more details contact your school site administrator.
Resources
Electronic Policy Handout
Board Policy 5131.8
