At Upper Elementary School (UES), we are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for all students. In today’s world, student communication often continues beyond the school day through text messaging, social media, gaming platforms, and group chats. While much of this communication takes place outside of school hours, it can significantly impact student relationships and the school climate.
Expectations for Respectful Communication
Students are expected to:
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Speak and act respectfully with peers in person and online
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Resolve conflict using kind, appropriate language
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Refrain from name-calling, threats, exclusion, gossip, or retaliation—whether in person or via digital communication
Parents are encouraged to monitor their child’s communication, especially in group chats, social media apps (e.g., TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Discord), or online gaming chats, as these are common sources of peer conflict.
When Out-of-School Communication Becomes a School Issue
UES may investigate and respond to out-of-school student-to-student communication if it disrupts the school environment or targets members of our community. In accordance with New Jersey’s Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act (N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14), school officials may take action on conduct that occurs off school grounds when it:
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Substantially disrupts the school day
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Creates a hostile educational environment for another student
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Infringes on the rights of a student at school
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Causes a student to feel unsafe, excluded, or targeted
Students may face school-based consequences, even for behavior that takes place outside of school, if it affects the safety and well-being of others during the school day.
Review of Personal Devices
Students may bring personal devices (such as phones or smartwatches) to school, but they must remain off and stored away unless otherwise approved. In the event of an HIB report involving digital communication, school administrators may review a student’s personal device in the presence of the student if there is reasonable suspicion that it contains evidence of a policy violation.
This practice is permitted under New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985), which allows school officials to conduct a search based on:
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Reasonable suspicion, and
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A search that is reasonable in scope and related to the suspected infraction
Additionally, N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14 through 18A:37-20 empowers schools to investigate and address off-campus harassment, intimidation, or bullying when it impacts the school setting. School Board Policy 5145.12 confirms that student possessions, including personal devices, may be searched under these conditions.
All device reviews are conducted professionally and discreetly, with respect for student privacy, and parents/guardians will be notified if a review occurs.
Note to Families:
Please speak with your child regularly about appropriate digital behavior, kind communication, and the lasting impact of online interactions. We appreciate your partnership in reinforcing responsible digital citizenship at home and at school.