Search and Seizure Standard Policy: Cell Phones in the Classroom Can Be Checked for Content

School policy prohibits students from having cell phones turned on or visible while at school. (The Herald/ Submitted Photo)

With national legislation like the Patriot Act and the National Defense Authorization Act diminishing the private rights of all Americans, it seems there is little information still considered personal.

Based on the cell phone and search polices of the Sevier County School System, cell phones are not only subject to confiscation, but text messages and other content is also allowed to be searched by administrators.

The policy states that students in the Sevier County School System are prohibited from having cell phones turned on or visible during the school day.

“If they don’t use them or have them out, we don’t search for them,” said Sevier County Assistant Superintendent of Personnel and Support Services Jim Wade. “Teachers and administrators should not be looking through cell phones.”