Bell-to-Bell Brilliance: Focusing on Academic Success 

Sweetwater Middle School is implementing the "Away for the Day" electronic device expectations

Dear Parents and Guardians,

To ensure a safe, focused, and distraction-free learning environment, Sweetwater Middle School is implementing the "Away for the Day" electronic device expectation. To keep our learning environment focused and distraction-free, remember these steps for cell phone, tablets, earbuds, headphones, smart watches, and smart glasses usage. Below are the procedures for students who do not adhere to this policy:

Step 1: First Offense – Warning

• The teacher reminds the student of the "Away for the Day" expectation.
• The student is referred to the grade-level administrator to receive a warning.
• A parent/guardian is notified via email documenting the incident and reminding them of the school policy.

Step 2: Second Offense – Device Secured for the Day

• The teacher reminds the student of the "Away for the Day" expectation.
• The student is referred to the grade-level administrator.
• The administrator secures the student's cell phone for the remainder of the school day.
• The student may retrieve the device at dismissal.
• A parent/guardian is contacted by phone to discuss the repeated violation and reinforce school expectations.

Step 3: Third Offense – Administrative Consequence

• The teacher reminds the student of the "Away for the Day" expectation.
• The student is referred to the grade-level administrator.
• The administrator secures the student's cell phone for the remainder of the week.
• The student receives an appropriate administrative consequence in accordance with the Gwinnett County Public Schools Student Conduct Behavior Code.
• A parent/guardian is contacted and required to retrieve the student's cell phone from the school.

Step 4: Ongoing Violations – Individualized Intervention

• Students who continue to violate the "Away for the Day" policy will be referred to the school's intervention team for additional support.
• The administration may develop an individualized behavior plan that includes parent conferences, behavior contracts, check-in/check-out procedures, or other appropriate interventions to promote compliance.
• Continued violations may result in additional disciplinary action consistent with district policy.

 

Thank you for your support in maintaining a focused learning environment for all students.

 

Sincerely,

The Administration

Sweetwater Middle School