When it comes to cell phones, get ready for signs in Hillsborough schools making the rules crystal clear. "It's a pretty simple slogan: If we see it, we take it," School Board member Carol Kurdell said.

Her comment wrapped up today's workshop discussion on out-of-control cell abuse by students. The district has a policy that phones must be off during the school day. But many are openly violating it.

When school begins in August, administrators are going to crack down. Cell phones visible on students during the instructional day -- including at lunch and between classes -- will be confiscated. They would be returned at the end of the day. Since the bus is an extension of the classroom, officials said cell phones can't be out on the ride home, either.

Some details remain to be worked out, such as how to regulate cell phones on the school bus. But principals and school officials enthusiastically endorsed the out-of-sight-or-else procedure. The practice still must be finalized by the Board with a vote.