1. Discipline Matrix Revisions:

• • The Discipline Matrix Chart in Section 6 has been updated to align with the Florida Department of Education’s (FLDOE) incident leveling guidelines. These revisions ensure consistency in how incidents are categorized and addressed across schools.

2. Clarification of Local Disciplinary Codes:

Updates have been made to clarify two Pinellas County Schools (PCS) local disciplinary codes:

• • Dangerous Object: The term Dangerous Implement has been revised to Dangerous Object, with further clarification provided to support consistent application.
  • Horseplaying: Additional clarification has been included to better define this behavior within the context of student conduct expectations.

On July 1, 2025, Florida House Bill 1105, including new provisions regarding student use of cell phones and other wireless communication devices in schools, became law. As a result, Pinellas County Schools will implement the following new rules in the 2025-26 school year, and these rules will supersede the current policy.

Elementary & Middle Schools

• Students may not use of cell phones or other wireless communication devices during the school day (bell to bell).

• Teachers no longer have the discretion to allow usage during instructional time for educational purposes.

High Schools

• No changes to current policy because the new law did not impact high school students.

These updates do not change existing provisions allowing for use pursuant to a student’s IEP, 504 Plan, or Health Care/Medical Plan, or in case of emergency.

The Code of Student Conduct will be formally updated to reflect this and other new laws during the first semester of the 2025-26 school year.