Attention RCHS Parents:
On December 10, 2025, the RCS Board of Education approved the recommended revisions to Board Policy 4318: Use of Cell Phones and Other Wireless Communication Devices effective January 1, 2026. The recommended revisions for this policy provided for definitions of
“Instructional Time” and a “Wireless Communication Device (WCD)”. It also provided some perimeters around who would have more control over when and how the WCD would be
utilized throughout the instructional day and the consequences for unauthorized use. This
policy revision was required by legislation - G.S. 115 C-76.100.
Additionally, 4318-Regulation: Student Use of Wireless Communication Devices
Implementation Procedures was created to increase understanding of the policy and how we might enforce it. This regulation outlines for our students and families how Policy: 4318
will be implemented in accordance with the aforementioned statute and will also become
in effect as of January 1, 2026. The following will be important for our students and parents to be aware of as this policy and regulation are fully implemented.
● Students may use their cell phones WCDs responsibly on the bus, walking into school,
and before entering homeroom each morning.
● Elementary and Middle school students may not use WCDs from the start of the
instructional day (either homeroom or a designated bell time) to the end of the last class
period, including transitions, lunch, and restroom breaks.
● High Schools may not use WCDs from the start of the instructional day (either
homeroom or a designated bell time) to the end of the last class period including
restroom breaks. Students may check their WCDs during their designated lunch time
and during transitional times (i.e. class changes).
● All students will be allowed to check phones 10 minutes each day prior to dismissal in
case there is an important message from parents.
● If parents need to get in touch with their child during the school day and prior to the last
10 minutes of the school day, please call the main office and we will assist.
● Students may use their phones WCDs after dismissal.
● Devices must be powered completely off and stored out of sight during this time.
● Phones should not be on their person or visible on a desk or other area while in classes
At the start of the calendar year, our school-level administrators will work with students to
ensure they understand what is expected of them. You may access this policy on the
Rockingham County Schools website under Board Policies at Board Policy 4318: Use of Cell Phones and Other Wireless Communication Devices and the 4318-Regulation: Student Use of Wireless Communication Devices Implementation Procedures.
If you have any questions, you may contact your school administrator for more clarification.