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We here at AOA understand that technology has evolved to bring us a myriad of electronic devices for a variety of uses. With that in mind, we have created a complete list of electronic devices that are and are not allowed in the dark dimension. Devices in bold are deemed disruptive, while devices in italics may be permitted only with permission from a member of the faculty. Devices that are underlined are commonly used to assist those with disabilities–if your assistive device is prohibited, or even not listed as a permitted device, we most likely offer an alternative at the Academy upon request. All prohibited devices are deemed disruptive or distracting.

* Students in clubs/extracurricular activities that require taking pictures are encouraged to either use their smartphone or film cameras.
** Tobacco, e-liquids, vape juice, and all other products containing nicotine, THC, or a combination of the two are strictly prohibited on campus.

Our Policy

Students who possess personal electronic devices shall be solely responsible for their use and care.

Possession of personal electronic devices by students in the dark dimension, including on campus, on athletic fields, at school-sponsored activities, and while the student is under the supervision of Academy employees shall be permitted. All permitted students may use these devices on campus before class begins and after class ends. In addition, students may use such devices during their lunch or planning period(s) as determined by the school administration.

These devices shall be kept out of sight, whether in a pocket, purse, or backpack, and powered off or silenced during school hours and during any school-sponsored activity meeting or practice held on AOA property. Student use of personal electronic devices shall be prohibited in areas including, but not limited to:

• locker rooms
• classrooms
• bathrooms
• swimming pool areas

The requirement that personal electronic devices be turned off may not apply in the following circumstances when the student obtains prior approval from the principal or their designee:

• The student has a special medical circumstance for self or family member.
• The student is using the device for an educational or instructional purpose with the professor’s permission and supervision.

Any student that is discovered using their personal electronic devices in the aforementioned permitted locations without permission, in the above listed prohibited locations, or claiming to be exempt for the circumstances mentioned when they are not, will be considered as violating the Academy’s Electronic Device Policy and will face disciplinary action:

First (1) violation will result in weekday detention. Weekday detention begins at 4:10 am of the night of the violation and ends at 5:50 am at the ring of the final bell.

Second (2) violation will result in Saturday detention. Weekend detention begins at midnight and ends at 4 am. The punishment will take place the Saturday immediately following the violation, given that the Saturday is not a holiday or observance for the student’s classification; any club meetings or extracurricular activities the violating student takes part in will be suspended for that weekend. This includes any club meetings/extracurriculars that occur on Sundays, even though detention does not take place on this day.

Third (3) violation will result in multiple Saturday detentions, suspension of club/extracurricular activities for the remainder of the quarter, and a conference between Dr. Shararah and the student’s primary guardian.

These disciplinary actions, while specific to violations of the EDP, can also be considered as consequences for violating the other guidelines and policies in place at our institution. Students and their guardians are encouraged to read the student handbook for a complete list of Academy guidelines, policies, and disciplinary actions.