Cell Phones

Summary of North Carolina House Bill 959 (2024) – Cell Phone Use in Schools and School Activities

North Carolina House Bill 959 establishes guidelines for student cell phone use in public schools. The law emphasizes minimizing distractions in learning environments while allowing for reasonable use during non-instructional times. Key points include:

School systems must adopt local policies to limit the use of wireless communication devices during instructional time.
Exceptions may be made for health, safety, or educational purposes, and at the discretion of school staff.
Non-instructional times, such as lunch or breaks, may permit use.
Policies should be communicated clearly to students and families.

While the law primarily applies to the traditional school day, its principles extend to school-sponsored activities like rehearsals and performances, particularly regarding minimizing distraction and maintaining a focused environment. As the ASYO meets on a school campus, we have developed the following guidelines in regards to cell phone use for our rehearsal environments:

ASYO Cell Phone Policy for Rehearsals and Events

To support a focused and respectful environment for music-making—and in alignment with House Bill 959—the Asheville Symphony Youth Orchestra (ASYO) has adopted the following cell phone policy for all rehearsals and after-school events:

General Policy

Cell phones must remain on silent and be stored in an instrument case or personal bag.
Cell phones should not be on music stands or used during active rehearsal time.

During Breaks

Students may use their phones during scheduled breaks, in designated break areas, as long as use is appropriate and not disruptive.

During Rehearsal

Conductors/Teaching Artists will clearly indicate when, if ever, phones may be used during rehearsal.
Students are expected to follow conductor/teaching artist instructions regarding phone use without exception.

Special Circumstances

If a student has a specific and compelling reason to keep a phone on the stand or accessible during rehearsal (e.g., health monitoring, family emergency contact), this must be discussed in advance with their conductor.

Violations

Students who repeatedly use phones inappropriately may be asked to leave the device at home for future events.
Continued misuse may result in further disciplinary action as determined by ASYO staff.

Summary Rule

“Cell phones are away, silent, and stored—never on a music stand unless approved.”

We appreciate your cooperation in creating an environment where students can focus fully on music, collaboration, and growth.

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