Is it against the law for schools to make you pay to get your cell phones back?

Question

I've never had my cell phone taken up at school, but the policy confuses me.

They say the first time you're caught, you get it taken up and given back after school for free. For the next three times, you have to pay $15 to get it back. The fifth time, it's taken away until the end of the school year.

Is this against the law in any way? It just seems... off to me. If it is, please give me a source, or which law it is, or... you know... anything.

Answer 1

No.

And the solution is simple.  Don't use your cell phone during school hours.

Answer 2

Being the kids willingly use the phones in school, knowing the rules, they forfeit the phone, and the fine will hopefully make them not want to use the phone in school.

Answer 3

I'd be more apt to say that the reason that they will taken away from you is legit ya know. while your in a class you shouldn't worry about who;s texting or who could be calling to bs,,'So I believe that will get better just respect others around you and you won't have to loose your cell phone. Its like taking your best friend away from you but I'd say a few hours a day wouldn't hurt you at all.. best of luck

Answer 4

I understand your point. You are right, I dont think they are able to do such a thing like charge to return something that you own. They can, however, fine parents for the disruption. Cell phones have become a nuisance and need to be turned off during class time.

If someone actually fought what they are presently doing, Im sure they would win but as I mentioned, there are ways around it.

Answer 5

It's unfortunately not illegal for the school to make you pay to get your phone back.

It is in many places, however, illegal for the school to hold the phone until the end of the school year.  You may want to check with your state's laws for this one.

Answer 6

It is called a fine, and yes it is legal. For example, if a car gets towed the owner must pay a fine and the towing expenses to get it back.