What is a Personal electronic devices (PEDs)? Any privately owned device that can send, receive, store, or display digital data, images, video, or audio, including cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, e-readers, headphones, earbuds, and other devices with functionalities such as wireless communication, internet access, messaging, video recording, gaming, social media access, or data transmission.

What are considered school hours for K-8? The period beginning with the first bell signaling the start of instructional time or entrance into the school building, whichever occurs first, shall include all scheduled instructional time, breaks, transitions, assemblies, and other school-related activities occurring between the start and end of the school day. Students will claim devices at the end of the school day; however, devices should not be powered on or accessed until students leave the school building for dismissal. K-5 and 6-8 instructional hours as defined in the student handbook each year.

What is considered accessing a PED? Viewing, holding, wearing, or otherwise using a device for the purpose of communication, internet access, gaming, recording, listening to music, or any other function commonly associated with personal electronic devices.

How can parents contact their students while they are at school? Parents needing to contact their child during the school day, in an emergency situation, should call the front office of their child’s school or send an email to messagek8@echols.k12.ga.us Messages will be given to students at the end of the day or at an appropriate transition time as deemed by administration. Students will not be called out of instructional time to receive messages.

What about PED usage during athletic and extracurricular events? Electronic devices may be used in accordance with the guidelines set up by the school and are subject to change.