NYS Cell Phone & Device Policy

School Year 2025–2026

  1. Policy Statement
    In accordance with New York State Education Law § 2803 and Chancellor’s Regulation A-413, M.S. 839 prohibits the use of personal internet-enabled electronic devices by students during the school day, from the first bell to the last bell. Additionally, M.S. 839 before and after school programs prohibit the use of personal internet-enabled electronic devices by students.
  2. Definitions
    • School Day: The period from the start of the first instructional period to the end of the last instructional period.
    • Internet-Enabled Electronic Device: Any device capable of accessing the internet, including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and similar personal devices.
    • School Grounds: All areas within the school building and outdoor spaces under school supervision.
  3. Prohibited Use
    • Students may not use personal internet-enabled devices during the school day, including:
      • In classrooms, hallways, restrooms, cafeterias, and outdoor areas.
      • During lunch, recess, and transitions between classes.
  4. Exceptions
    • Use of personal devices may be permitted under the following conditions:
      • Educational Use: Authorized by a teacher or administrator for a specific instructional activity.
      • Medical Necessity: Required to monitor a medical condition, as documented by a healthcare provider and reviewed by the Office of School Health.
      • Caregiver Responsibility: Approved by a school counselor for students who are primary caregivers.
      • Legal Requirement: Where mandated by law.
      • IEP/504 Plan: If specified in a student’s Individualized Education Program or 504 Plan and no DOE-issued device is available.
      • Optional school-specific exceptions may include:
      • Emergency contact initiated by a parent with prior notification to the principal.
      • Translation or interpretation needs when no alternative is available.
  5. Storage of Devices
    • Students must store personal devices in one of the following ways:
      • School staff will collect personal devices in class bins at the start of every day. When instructed by classroom teachers, students will place personal devices in their designated slot in the class bin.
      • Class bins will be securely stored throughout the day. Bins will be returned to classes at the end of the day, where phones will be distributed to students.
  6. Emergency Communication
    • Parents may contact students during the school day via:
      • The school’s main office phone: 718-686-2730
      • For non-emergency communication, caregivers may reach out to staff using the TalkingPoints App and email.
  7. Enforcement
    • Violations of this policy may result in progressive disciplinary action in accordance with the NYC Discipline Code including:
      • Confiscation of the device for the day.
      • Parent notification and conference.
  8. Notification – This policy will be:
    • Distributed to all students and families before the start of the school year.
    • Posted on the school website and in common areas.
    • Reviewed during student orientation and staff meetings.
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