Welcome to University High School!
A Magnet School Of Distinction
UHS Cell Phone Expectations
Hello, Cougars and Cougar Families!
This is Principal Ott with an important announcement regarding student cell phones, earbuds, watches, and other ancillary electronic items for the 2023-2024 school year. You received a message from OCPS last evening regarding the new 2023-2024 Code of Student Conduct which includes the new policy. That policy can be found on pg. 30 of the Code and states that:
“A student may possess a cell phone on Board property, on school transportation, and at school activities, provided that during school hours, the cell phone is silenced and concealed. Pursuant to Section 1006.07, Florida Statutes, “a student may not use a wireless communications device during instructional time, except when expressly directed by a teacher solely for educational purposes. A teacher shall designate an area for wireless communications devices during instructional time.” For purposes of this section, the designated area will be in the student’s backpack or purse, except when expressly directed by a teacher solely for educational purposes. Violations of the cell phone policy will be handled in accordance with the Code and may result in confiscation of said device. If the cell phone is used in a criminal act (such as sexting as outlined in Florida Statutes and the Code), the cell phone will be provided to law enforcement and the student may face criminal penalties.
The use of wireless communication devices is always prohibited during the school day (from the first-morning bell to dismissal) unless expressly directed by a teacher solely for educational purposes. Wireless communication devices include but are not limited to, cell phones and/or auxiliary/ancillary devices such as watches and earbuds. Students may not receive discipline if they use their cell phone and/or ancillary device(s) to monitor a health condition that is documented through medical records provided to the school including, but not limited to, an IEP, a Section 504 Plan or a Health Plan.
At no time shall OCPS be responsible for theft, loss, or damage to cell phones or other electronic devices brought onto its property.
These standards apply to all students in the public schools of Orange County.”
To ensure that UHS and our students and families are prepared to meet these requirements, we have developed a guidance document for all of our students and families. You can find that information if you email and in the newly published Cougar Corner.
At this time, I ask that you review this information closely with your students and if you have any questions, either email us at [email protected] or visit our Q&A table during Meet the Teacher on August 8th. Thank you all very much, have a GREAT Cougar evening, and I will see you soon students!
Office Hours:
7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Student School Hours:
7:20 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. ( M, T, TH, F)
7:20 A.M. to 1:10 p.m. (W)