Cell Phone Policy
Cell Phone & Internet Enabled Device Policy
To create an environment conducive to learning by minimizing distractions caused by cell phones and other personal internet-enabled electronic devices, ensure the safety and focus of all students during school the school day, and follow Education Law §2803, effective August 1, 2025, all New York State schools are required to adopt a policy that prohibits the use of personal internet-enabled devices during the school day on school grounds. An "internet-enabled electronic device" is defined as an electronic device capable of connecting to the internet and enabling the user to access content on the internet. Examples of such devices include cell phones, smartphones, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, iPads, and portable music and entertainment systems.
Policy statement:
Students will not be permitted to use or access their personal internet-enabled electronic devices upon arrival at school until the end of the school day. The school day is defined as the period from the moment students enter the school building until the last class of the day ends, including during lunch. Students will be able to use school/NYCPS-issued devices during the school day.
COLLECTION/STORAGE
Upon arrival, students must power off their devices.
When your child arrives at their classroom, the following will take place:
The teacher will collect any devices (phones, smartwatches, etc.)
The devices will be stored in a bin, in a locked closet, within the classroom.
At the end of the school day, devices will be returned to the students, by their classroom teacher.
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, parents or guardians can call Ms. Chacon, Parent Coordinator at 718-786-6703, to reach their child.
In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, students may access phones in their classrooms to reach their parents or guardians.
In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, the school will use email to communicate information to parents or guardians.
EXCEPTIONS
Students are allowed to use their device if they have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan that includes use of an internet-enabled device and do not have a DOE-issued device for such purpose.
Parents/guardians must contact Mr. Padula, School Counselor, at 718-786-6703 x322, if a student requires an exception for reasons such as: medical reasons (for example to monitor blood sugar or other similar circumstances), if student is a caregiver, for approved language purposes (such as translation or interpretation services if no other means are available), or where otherwise required by law.
Exceptions will be processed and approved within three school days.
DISCIPLINE
Students who use electronic devices in violation of the NYCPS Discipline Code, the school's policy, Chancellor's Regulation A-413, and/or the NYCPS Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy ("IAUSP") will be subject to progressive discipline. This means that the disciplinary responses will escalate based on the nature and frequency of the violation. As provided in the State law, a student may not be suspended solely on the grounds that the student accessed a personal internet-enabled device in violation of school policy. Repeated incidents of insubordination (i.e. refusal to surrender or store device) may result in a suspension if approved by the Office of Safety and Youth Development.
OTHER: If lost or stolen
In the unlikely event that an electronic device is stolen or damaged at school, parents can submit a claim to the Comptroller’s Office. More information on submitting a claim is available on the Comptroller’s webpage.
We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a focused and productive learning environment. If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding these policies, please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Chacon, Parent Coordinator, at 718-786-6703.