In 2025, the New York State Legislature passed a new law that will go into effect starting with the 2025-2026 school year, prohibiting student use of smartphones and similar internet-enabled devices during the school day in all public schools. 

This statewide “bell-to-bell” ban on personal internet-enabled devices, includes cell phones, smart watches and tablets. Students in middle and high school must keep their personal devices in their lockers. Elementary students’ devices will be stored in designated classroom locations.

In devising its policy, the district consulted with local stakeholders including employee organizations representing each bargaining unit, parents, and students. This policy aims to ensure that students remain focused on their academic responsibilities throughout the entire school day, from bell to bell.

The board adopted the new policy, #7316 Use of Internet-Enabled Devices During the School Day, on June 24, 2025.

Its goal is to reduce distractions, promote learning and support student well-being in the school environment.

You may view the district’s policy here. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is this policy being implemented?

This is a New York State law that requires a bell-to-bell cell phone and personal device ban for students. While this is not a district initiative, we support the regulation due to the growing concerns around student mental health, focus, and well-being. Research and school-based evidence show that limiting access to personal devices during the school day reduces distractions, improves student engagement, and supports a healthier learning environment.

We know this policy represents a significant shift. Our goal is to support students in being fully present in their learning, in building resilience and interpersonal connections, and in protecting their mental health. Thank you for your partnership as we work together to create the best learning environment for all students.

 

What devices are included in the ban?

All personal internet-enabled electronic devices, including cell phones and smartwatches, are included. Smartwatches have become just as distracting and often serve the same function as phones.

 

Where will students store their phones?

Students will be required to keep their internet-enabled devices turned off and stored in lockers during the school day at the middle and high school buildings. At the elementary level, no adjustments are needed, as students have already been following a practice of storing devices in designated classroom locations with the devices turned off. That protocol will remain in place.

 

Why are students not allowed to store their phones in their backpacks?

While the District had originally planned to have students keep their phones off and away in their backpacks, clarification from both the Office of the Governor and the New York State Education Department (NYSED) indicated that backpacks “… are not an allowable storage solution.” Please see these links for more information.

From NYSED: 2025 Distraction-Free Schools: Guidance

From the Office of the Governor: Distraction-Free Schools: Implementation Resources

 

What if a student needs to contact a parent during the school day?

Students may use the phone in the main office. We understand concerns around privacy, and our staff will provide support to help students feel comfortable making necessary calls.

 

Can students use their phones at lunch?

No. The mandate is bell-to-bell, which includes lunch periods.

 

Is there any flexibility for emergencies?

Yes. In case of emergency, the main office and counseling center phones are available. Additionally, the belief that personal devices make emergency situations safer is often inaccurate. During real emergencies, mass personal device use can lead to confusion, spread misinformation, interfere with first responders, and overwhelm communication systems.

 

What happens if a student violates the policy?

On a first offense, students will be asked to put their phone away. Repeated offenses will be considered insubordination and subject to disciplinary action as outlined in the Chart of Progressive Discipline found in the 2025-26 Code of Conduct.

 

What if students don’t have anything to do during study halls without their phones?

Study halls are intended for academic work. Students can read, write, complete assignments, or access school-approved content on Chromebooks. If all work is done, they can also request library access.

 

What about communication for after-school plans, sports, or clubs?

Students will have their phones at the end of the day and can coordinate plans then. Additionally, teachers and coaches can communicate via ParentSquare. Families should ensure students are clear on after-school expectations in the morning.

 

Why can’t watches with limited functions be allowed for safety?

Smartwatches, even with limited features, still allow discreet communication and can be used inappropriately. At this time, all smartwatches are included in the ban to ensure consistency and minimize distraction.

 

What if a student struggles with anxiety or needs a phone for comfort?

We understand that separation from devices may initially be difficult. Staff will be available to support students in the transition. If a student has a documented need, families should work with their child’s counselor to explore appropriate accommodations.

 

Is the school considering exceptions for lunch or study halls?

No. The policy is required by the state to be enforced consistently throughout the instructional day, including study halls and lunch. This clarity helps ensure fairness and effectiveness.

 

How will the school handle updates about schedule changes for sports or clubs?

ParentSquare and/or Google Classroom will continue to be used for communication, and we encourage families to check messages at the end of the day. Staff will work to provide timely and accessible updates. As in the past, students will receive announcements during or at the end of the day regarding schedule changes for sports or clubs.

 

How can parents ensure they can reach their child in a real emergency?

Parents can always call the main office. We will ensure that students receive important messages in a timely and discreet manner.

 

What if students don’t use or know how to use their lockers?

Support will be provided at the beginning of the school year to help students learn their locker combinations and build locker-use routines.