FAQs: Personal Internet-Enabled Devices

General Policy

What is the new policy on personal electronic devices?
Students are prohibited from using personal internet-enabled devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, non-district laptops) anywhere on school grounds during the school day. Devices must be powered off and stored in lockers or designated locations for students in grades 7-12. Elementary students (grades PreK–6) cannot bring these devices to school at all. Click here to read the full policy in English. To translate the policy into other languages, click here.

Which devices are included?
Any device that connects to the internet, such as smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and laptops not issued by the district. Other personal electronics (e.g., headphones, e-readers) must also be stored and powered off unless a teacher or administrator gives permission.

Why is this policy in place?
It is required by state law and aims to reduce distractions, improve academic performance, promote mental health, and ensure a safe, focused learning environment.

Exceptions and Special Circumstances

Are there exceptions for medical or special education needs?
Yes. Students with IEPs, Section 504 Plans, or documented medical needs may be granted exceptions. Parents must request exceptions through the school principal and provide appropriate documentation.

How do I request an exception for my child?
Contact your school principal and submit documentation from a healthcare professional or relevant specialist if required.

Can my child use their device for translation or family caregiving responsibilities?
Yes, exceptions may be made for translation needs or caregiving responsibilities, reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Communication and Emergencies

How can I contact my child during the school day?
Call the school’s main office. Students can request to contact parents from the administrator’s or counselor’s office.

What happens during an emergency?
The school will follow established emergency protocols. Staff will facilitate communication with families as needed. Personal device use during emergencies is generally not permitted to avoid interfering with safety procedures.

What if my child feels anxious not having their phone?
Staff are available to support students who feel anxious. If your child has a documented anxiety disorder or similar need, contact the school to discuss possible accommodations.

Enforcement and Consequences

How will the policy be enforced?
Progressive discipline will be used: warning, device confiscation, parent contact, and, for repeat violations, daily device check-in with administration. Out-of-school suspensions will not be used for policy violations as long as your child complies with the request from staff if found to be in violation of the policy.

What if my child refuses to give up their device?
Further consequences under the district’s Code of Conduct may apply, including but not limited to and up to detention, exclusion from extracurricular activities, or suspension. Staff will also work with families to address underlying issues.

Will the policy be enforced consistently?
The district is committed to fair enforcement and will report annual data to monitor for disparities.

Instructional and Practical Questions

Can my child use their device for classwork or educational purposes?
Only if the device is registered and approved by administration for a specific activity. Otherwise, personal devices must remain stored and off.

What if my child needs their phone for after-school plans?
Students can retrieve their devices after the school day. Parents are encouraged to coordinate plans before or after school hours.

What if my child forgets to store their device or accidentally leaves it on?
Initial violation will result in a warning. Repeated incidents will follow the progressive disciplinary measures outlined above.

What if my child needs to check in with me about a health issue (e.g., medication reminders)?
Discuss your child’s needs with the school nurse or counselor to arrange appropriate support or accommodations.

What if my child loses, damages, or has their device stolen at school?
The district is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged devices.

Testing and Assessments

Are devices allowed during tests?
No. Devices are prohibited in testing locations. Proctors may collect devices before Regents and AP exams. Only students with documented needs (IEP/504/medical) may use approved devices.

Policy Details and Feedback

Where can I read the full policy?
The policy is posted on the Board of Education website in English. You may translate the policy into other languages by clicking here. Hard copies are available upon request.

How can I share feedback or ask more questions?
You may submit questions through this link. This FAQ will be updated as new concerns arise. A virtual meeting will be held Wednesday evening, August 13, for further discussion.

Scenarios 

What if my child witnesses or is involved in a bullying incident and wants to report it immediately?
Students should report incidents to a staff member, counselor, or administrator, who will respond promptly. The district encourages open communication and will support students in reporting concerns.

What if my child needs to use a device for a club, extracurricular, or after-school activity?
The policy applies during the school day. After-school use is permitted. Students should store devices during the day and retrieve them at dismissal.

What if my child needs their phone for a ride or transportation change during the day?
Students can request to use a school phone or office phone to contact parents about transportation issues.

What if my child is responsible and never uses their phone in class, can they keep it with them?
No. The policy applies to all students to ensure equity and consistency. Devices must be stored and powered off, regardless of prior behavior.

What if my child has a smartwatch that tracks health but also connects to the internet?
Smartwatches capable of internet access are covered by the policy and must be stored and powered off unless an exception is granted for appropriately documented medical needs.

What if my family has an emergency and needs to reach my child immediately?
Contact the school office. Staff will relay urgent messages to students promptly. Parents will receive confirmation that the message has been received. 

What if my child needs to leave early for an appointment?
Send a note or call the main office. Students will be called from class as needed.

What if my child’s device is confiscated and we need it after school?
Parents can pick up confiscated devices from the school office or administrator.

If your question is not answered here, please submit it using the provided link. We are committed to addressing all family concerns as we implement this policy.