Cell Phone Policy

Click here for a downloadable PDF of Penn’s Personal Communication Devices Expectations.

Student Expectations

Beginning with the 2026-27 School Year, Indiana Senate Enrolled Act 78 (SEA 78) requires personal communication devices–including cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, headphones, AI glasses, and similar devices–to be powered off, out of sight, and not be used during the school day. 

Students will be expected to store their devices in a backpack, purse, athletic bag, or similar bag from the start of the school day until dismissal.

These expectations will be in effect from the first bell at 8:25 a.m. to the dismissal bell at 3:17 p.m.

Students may continue to use their devices:

• Before school

• After school

• While riding the bus 

During the School Day

The expectation applies in all settings, including:

• Classrooms

• Hallways

• Lunch periods

If a student is seen with a device out, staff will remind the student to put it away. Our focus will be on helping students adjust to the new expectations while maintaining a positive learning environment.

Progressive Discipline Process

1st Offense

• Review of expectations and consequences

• Device secured in the classroom for the remainder of the class period

• Returned at the end of class

• After-school detention assigned

2nd Offense

• Device confiscated and taken to the office

• Student required to pick up the device after their final scheduled class has ended.

3rd Offense

• Device confiscated and taken to the office

• Parent/guardian required to pick up the device

4th Offense

• Device is confiscated and held in the office.

• For the following two full school days, the student must check the device into the office before their first scheduled class begins, and check it out only after their final scheduled class has ended.

5th Offense

• Students must check the device into the office before their first scheduled class begins, and check it out only after their final scheduled class has ended.  

• This requirement will remain in place for an extended period of time.

• Parent meeting required to develop a plan moving forward

Students who refuse to comply with staff directions regarding communication devices may move directly to a higher level of consequence.

Parent Communication with Students During the School Day

We understand that families may occasionally need to reach their students during the school day. Parents may continue to:

• Email their student

• Contact the Main Office, and we will ensure messages are delivered when necessary.

Additional Information

• Students may continue to use wired headphones connected to their Chromebooks during approved times.

• Accommodations for students with documented medical, educational, or other approved needs will continue to be addressed through existing support plans and procedures.

• Additional information and guidance will be shared throughout the summer as procedures are finalized.

Click here for a downloadable quick reference guide of the Personal Communication Devices new policy.