Welcome to a brand-new school year! We are excited to open our doors and begin what promises to be a fantastic year at Blue Earth Area High School. Whether your student is just beginning their journey with us or nearing the finish line toward graduation, we are thrilled to have all of our Bucs back in the building!
The beginning of the school year is always filled with energy, fresh goals, and the chance to build strong connections both in and out of the classroom. Our teachers are ready to support, challenge, and inspire each student as they work toward their goals.
As we settle back into routines, I’d like to take a moment to highlight an important update to our cell phone policy. This update is designed to support student focus, engagement, and academic success. While we recognize that cell phones are a part of everyday life and can be valuable tools, they can also be a significant source of distraction in the school setting. Frequent phone use can reduce student engagement, disrupt instruction, and in some cases, contribute to inappropriate use or increased anxiety.
As part of our ongoing focus on student engagement, we’re clarifying expectations around when and how personal devices may be used. Phones and earbuds are not to be used during instructional time, which includes class periods, study halls, and bathroom breaks. Upon entering the classroom, students will place their phones in a designated phone caddy, where each student has an assigned number. Phones must remain in the caddy until the end of the class period. Additionally, devices are not to be used during passing time between classes; however, students are welcome to access their phones during their scheduled lunch period.
Guidelines and consequences for inappropriate cell phone use are designed to support a positive learning environment and are outlined in the BEA High School Student Handbook. We encourage families to review these expectations together and discuss the importance of responsible technology use in school.
Families should also be aware that students bring their phones to school at their own risk. The school is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged devices.
We understand that families may occasionally need to contact their students during the school day. If this need arises, please call the high school office at (507) 526-3201, and our administrative staff will ensure that your message is delivered promptly. This helps minimize classroom disruptions and ensures important messages are communicated effectively.
As we begin this school year, our focus is on creating the best possible learning environment for every student. We believe this policy will help students stay engaged and ready to learn each day. We ask for your partnership in reviewing these expectations with your student and helping reinforce the importance of being present and respectful in class.
We’re looking forward to a fantastic start to the year and can’t wait to see all the great things our students will accomplish.
Let’s make it a BEAutiful year!
Conan Shaffer
BEA High School Principal