Personal Electronic Communication Devices

In accordance with North Dakota state law (NDCC 15.1-07-41) that was adopted during the 2025 legislative session, Fargo Public Schools has a policy regarding the use of personal electronic communication devices during the school day. Per FPS Administrative Policy 4263 Personal Electronic Communication Device Use, students are not permitted to use or access personal devices — such as cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, or personal tablets or computers — during the school day. Devices must be turned off or silenced and securely stored in lockers. Students are not allowed to carry their personal electronic device with them throughout the school day.

Please be aware that the Fargo Public School District is not responsible for lost or damaged devices. For our elementary students, please note that while each child has a locker, locks are neither provided nor permitted.

If any parent or student has a concern about the safety and security of personal electronic devices, we strongly recommend that students leave their electronic devices at home.

This policy supports a learning environment free from distractions and promotes student well-being, safety, and academic engagement. It reflects both the expectations of state law and the commitment of Fargo Public Schools to maintain a positive, focused school culture.

Please review the full policy and the FAQs included below for details on what this policy means, what is and isn’t allowed, and how enforcement works.

Messages to Families

Please see messages sent to families on AP 4263:

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this new policy mean?
Students must turn off or silence all personal electronic communication devices and store them in their lockers during the school day (bell to bell). Devices must remain inaccessible until the school day ends.

What if my school does not have lockers?
Students at the Explorer Academy, Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE), or an elementary school without lockers may utilize a designated storage area.

What kinds of devices are included?
The policy applies to any portable device capable of voice, text, or data communication or internet access, including:

Cell phones and smartphones
Smartwatches and wearable technology
Earbuds, Bluetooth-enabled devices
Personal tablets, computers, e-readers and gaming devices
Or any other devices defined in policy (AP 4263)

Devices not included:

School-issued devices
Medically necessary devices
Devices required by IEPs, 504 plans, or documented accommodations

Can students use headphones?
Yes. Wired headphones are allowed to be connected to a student's District-issued technology device as permitted by school staff.

When are students not allowed to use their devices?
Devices must be stowed away during:

Class periods
Passing time
Recess and lunch
Advisory or study periods
Field trips (elementary and middle school)

When can students use their devices?
Use is permitted:

Before the first bell and after the last bell
On the bus to and from school
High school field trips
Sporting events and school dances
On shuttles between high schools

What if my student needs to contact me?
Students may request to use a school phone to contact a parent or caregiver during the day. Email can also be used.

What if I need to contact my student during the school day for a non-emergency related need?
Parents and caregivers who need to contact their student during the day may do so by calling the main office phone number. Email can also be used.

What are the consequences for breaking the policy?

Violation	Consequence
1st	Device held in office; student may retrieve at the end of the school day.
2nd	Device held in office; parent/guardian must retrieve; student receives a disciplinary consequence according to the FPS Code of Character, Conduct, and Support.
3rd	Device held in office; parent retrieval required; student receives a disciplinary consequence according to the FPS Code of Character, Conduct, and Support.

Refusing to turn over a device is considered non-compliance and will result in further consequences under the Code of Character, Conduct, and Support.

What if my student has a medical or learning need?
Exemptions are allowed if a device is required:

By a licensed medical provider
As part of an IEP or 504 plan

Documentation must be on file. If unsure, consult your building administrator or the student's case manager.

Will the school be responsible for lost or stolen devices?
No. Fargo Public Schools is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal devices. We recommend students do not bring devices if they are not needed.

Where can I learn more?
Please review the full policy. During the school year begins, please reach out to your school office with any questions.