PROGRAM POLICIES
CELL PHONE POLICY
GLA strives to create an environment that encourages students to unplug and forge connections with fellow students and the local community. We have found that when students have unrestricted access to cell phones, it can detract from their ability to be present and fully engaged in the experience.
Students may bring their phones to the program, but they should not expect all-day, unrestricted access. Instead, cell phone use is limited to staff-designated cell phone times, which are intentionally scheduled to support student wellbeing, group dynamics and meaningful connection to place.
Cell phone time will be visible on the daily schedule (note: some programs are designed to be out of service for long portions, so timing will vary by site). Students will receive their phones after nightly group activities and keep them overnight. This allows for communication with home, time to charge devices, and the ability to use phones for music, journaling, or alarm clocks. Each morning, students will return their phones to the designated staff-managed phone container.
In addition to nightly access, GLA encourages staff to provide students with their phones during select adventure days or cultural excursions where photo-taking enhances the experience or increases safety (e.g., if students may be briefly separated or navigating public spaces). These include but are not limited to safaris, visits to major landmarks, ziplining, hiking, or long bus rides.
To prevent damage, GLA recommends phones have both screen protectors and durable cases. Students found using their phone outside of designated times will be subject to the following consequences: verbal warning, written warning and possible dismissal from the program for repeated violations.
Parents should not expect to hear from students for the majority of the day (local time). In case of urgent needs, parents may contact the international staff or GLA’s 24/7 emergency hotline. Students in programs with large time zone differences may receive additional cell phone time for family communication.
Europe Program Exception
Due to the unique structure and logistical realities of GLA’s Europe programs, students will have increased access to their cell phones in this region. These programs often involve navigating public transportation systems, breaking into smaller groups for excursion activities, and higher movement within urban environments. For risk management and safety reasons, students may be permitted to carry their phones during the day when determined necessary by staff.
When in use, phone use is expected to support program logistics, safety, and connection to place – not to distract from the group experience. Students should continue to follow staff guidance on appropriate times and uses. Staff will set clear guidelines to indicate moments when phone usage is not appropriate (e.g., during group reflections, mealtimes or cultural activities) to ensure that the spirit of GLA’s unplugged culture is preserved. Parents should be aware that while their student may carry a phone more frequently in Europe, usage is still monitored and limited with the same goal to maximize presence and engagement.
Case-by-Case Exceptions
Phones For Payment
Apple Pay, Google Wallet or any digital payment options that require a cell phone may not always be available and should not be relied on as a primary form of payment by students. Students are expected to bring cash or credit cards for purchases and emergency funds. GLA HQ reserves the right to make exceptions to the cell phone policy at its discretion. These may include, but are not limited to, allowing individual students to carry their devices for medical needs, emergency situations, or use of medically-required apps (e.g., glucose monitoring). If there is a group-wide adjustment to the phone schedule, parents will be notified.
Photos
We understand how important it is to capture memories. To support this:
- GLA staff will take group and candid photos each day. These will be uploaded to a shared Google folder and made available to all participants at the end of the session.
- Students will be permitted to use their phones during select excursions and travel days to take photos and videos. These moments will be determined by staff and communicated in advance.
- If students want access to a camera throughout the day, we strongly encourage bringing a small, personal camera, which may remain with them at all times.
Electronics are brought on the program at your own risk. Therefore, GLA is not responsible for any damaged, lost or stolen electronic devices.
Internet Access, Signal & Connectivity on GLA programs
Each program location has its own level of connectivity. At Home Bases where Wi-Fi is available, students will be granted access during staff-approved phone times. If a student does not have a phone, they may request to use a staff phone to contact home.
Connectivity is not guaranteed, and some locations may have very limited or intermittent access (e.g., connection only at the beginning or end of a program). View program-specific connectivity expectations here.
Available Wi-Fi is for family communication only and not for streaming. Some locations have limited shared data caps, and streaming can deplete these resources very quickly.
Drones, Laptops and Misc. Electronics on GLA Programs
Students on GLA programs will not be permitted to bring laptops, iPads/tablets, drones and other expensive electronics as they are not conducive to the travel experience on GLA programs. On GLA Travel Internships, resources and materials will be made available offline in journals and workbooks however laptops and iPads will be permitted.
Cameras & Wearable Devices
Students are encouraged to bring a small point-and-shoot camera to take photos throughout the program. Camera use during activities (e.g., service or cultural events) is at the discretion of program staff and may be restricted for ethical or situational reasons. Cell phones may also be used as cameras during scheduled phone times or staff-approved outings. Students may also choose to bring a digital camera-to-phone cable to upload pictures in real time to their phone for sharing and editing during free time.
DSLRs and expensive photography equipment are allowed in place of a point-and-shoot camera; however, students will be responsible for the security of their equipment. Wearable devices will not be collected along with cell phones; however, as travelers it is best practice to keep a low profile, and therefore wearable devices are not recommended. GLA is not responsible for any damaged, lost or stolen electronic devices.
GLA Blogs
Each program will post 2–3 student-written blog entries per week, including photos and highlights of recent activities. These updates depend on staff capacity and internet availability. A group photo and welcome update will be shared shortly after student arrival.
The purpose of these blogs is to provide families with insight into the student experience, not a detailed daily report.
Cyber Bullying
GLA has a zero-tolerance policy for cyberbullying or any use of technology to harm others. Students engaging in such behavior may be subject to disciplinary action, including dismissal.
Cell Phone Searches
GLA may conduct a search of a student’s phone only with the student’s consent (or parental consent, if the student is a minor), and only with reasonable suspicion that the device contains evidence of a serious policy violation (e.g., Code of Conduct breaches). The scope of any search will be limited and age-appropriate.
GLA Staff and Cell Phone Policy
Staff are expected to model healthy tech use. In front of students, staff will limit phone use to work-related purposes and explain when and why they are using their device. Staff must have phones on them at all times for safety, program operations, and communication with HQ and families.
Cell Phone Policy and Fellowships (Arts & Letters Fellows in Photography or Videography Tracks)
Fellowship students follow the same phone guidelines as all other students. We encourage Fellowship students in Photography or Videography tracks to bring a point-and-shoot camera to support their work, as these may be used more widely than a smartphone.