Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy
Proposed Policy - Effective August 1, 2025
In accordance with Education Law §2803
Proposed Policy Document
Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy
Purpose
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 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.
Definition: 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.
School Day Hours
8:25 AM - 2:45 PM
Students will be able to use
School/NYCPS-issued devices
1. Collection/Storage
Yondr Pouch System
Pouch Replacement: In the event that a storage device, such as a pouch, is lost or damaged, the school will provide a new pouch at no charge for the first time. If the second pouch is lost or damaged, students will be required to pay a nominal fee for a replacement.
2. Emergency Communications
In case of emergency or exigent circumstances:
Student Access: Students may have their pouches unlocked to access their phones (when it is safe to do so) in order to reach their parents or guardians.
School Communications: The school will use robocalls through the DOE system OASIS to communicate information to parents or guardians. Parents/guardians should ensure that the school has their most up-to-date phone numbers in order to receive automated messages and a working voicemail system that can receive messages.
3. Exceptions
IEP/504 Plan Exception
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.
Contact for Exception Requests:
Ms. Paola - Parent Coordinator
929-549-3250Exception reasons include:
- •Medical monitoring/treatment (e.g., blood sugar monitoring)
- •Student is a caregiver
- •Approved language purposes (translation/interpretation if no other means available)
- •Where otherwise required by law
Educational Use: The principal/designee may authorize use for an educational purpose. Exceptions will be processed and approved at the principal's discretion.
4. 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.
Important: As provided in 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 a device) may result in a suspension if approved by the Office of Safety and Youth Development.
5. 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.
Questions or Clarification?
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:
Stay Connected with Your Child's Education!
We encourage all families to sign up for a NYC Schools Account—your one-stop portal for tracking your child's progress from Pre-K through high school.
With an account, you can monitor grades, test scores, and attendance, and access exclusive digital resources for NYC public school families. You'll also receive important updates about school closures, emergencies, and events.
Need help setting up?
Contact Paola Jose at djosedeabreu@schools.nyc.gov