“Internet-enabled devices” include:

• Smartphones

• Tablets

• Smartwatches

• Any device capable of connecting to the Internet or accessing content like social media

Excluded:

• Basic phones without Internet access

• District-issued devices used for educational purposes

The policy applies:

• During the entire school day (from the first bell to dismissal)

• In all areas including classrooms, hallways, study halls, cafeterias, restrooms, recess, and field trips

• On all school grounds, including any building or property associated with the district

All students must:

• Turn off their personal Internet-enabled devices

• Store them in lockers (grades 7–12) or cubbies (UPK–6) during the entire instructional day

Use of personal Internet-enabled devices may be allowed only:

• With teacher or principal authorization for educational purposes

• When required for health care

• In emergencies

• For translation services

• For student caregivers (case-by-case review)

• As part of an approved IEP or Section 504 Plan

• As required by law

Parents/guardians may contact students during the day through:

• Phone or email to the school office

• Emergency messages via the intercom system

• Written notes delivered through school staff

Phones are available in the school offices for student use if necessary.

Students will not be suspended solely for violating this policy. However, the district will address violations through appropriate disciplinary measures.

Beginning in September 2026, the district will publish an annual report on policy enforcement. This includes:

• Non-identifiable demographic data

• Analysis of potential disparities

• A mitigation plan if significant disproportionality is found

New York State has prioritized creating distraction-free learning environments by requiring school districts to adopt clear policies limiting the use of personal internet-enabled devices during the school day. Our district’s policy aligns with this statewide initiative and is rooted in a commitment to student well-being, safety, and academic success.

Key Reasons for Enforcing This Policy

Improved Academic Performance
Research shows that student learning significantly improves when personal devices are removed from the classroom. Distractions from phones and social media reduce memory retention, focus, and task completion.

📚 A 2020 study from the London School of Economics found that banning mobile phones in schools improved test scores, particularly for low-achieving students.

✅ Reduced Anxiety and Social Pressure
Limiting access to smartphones during the day helps reduce cyberbullying, social comparison, and pressure to respond immediately to notifications, contributing to better mental health.

🧠 The American Psychological Association (APA) and Common Sense Media both note that constant digital connection is tied to increased anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption among adolescents.

Enhanced Social Engagement
Without devices, students are more likely to engage in meaningful, face-to-face conversations and build stronger peer relationships during lunch, recess, and passing time.

Equity and Inclusion
By removing personal devices from the school setting, we create a more equitable learning environment, especially for students who may not own the latest technology or prefer not to use them.

Safety and Emergency Readiness
In emergencies, students may act on false information or panic when relying on unverified social media posts. Structured communication protocols ensure safer, more coordinated responses.