Updated cell phone policy at WALC

Dear WALC students/families:

At the Winona Area Learning Center, we want all students to be engaged and safe daily.  Student cell phones lead to educational disruptions, distractions, and significant social conflict. For this reason, the WALC will no longer allow students to use cell phones during their academic courses during the school day.  The students will place their cell phones in assigned storage pockets in the classroom.

Family support is essential to the success of WALC’s cell phone policy. Be sure to review the contents of this letter as a family.

• Proactively talk with your student about after-school plans, appointments, or activities before arrival at school.
• Remind your students how they can reach family during school hours and how you can reach them in case of an emergency through the school office.   We do have an office phone available for emergencies.  

The consequence of not following the school cell phone policy is that the student will be sent home. You will be called and asked to pick up your student from school, or they will be asked to leave if they walk or drive to school.  We will not be holding their phone in the office or until the end of the day. If you feel your student cannot abide by this policy, please refrain from their cell phone being on campus.  

Students can check messages during our two 15-minute breaks and at their 30-minute lunch. Please do not expect a response from your student anytime during the day, as their access will be limited to those times.

We appreciate your continued support and cooperation in facilitating a safe and supportive learning environment for all our students. Your understanding and adherence to the new cell phone policy ensure its success. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

If you have an emergency during the school day and need to speak with your student or get a message, please contact our main office at 507-494-1460.  

Sincerely,
Jolene Danca
Principal