New York’s Distraction-Free Schools Law prohibits the use of personal internet-enabled devices, including smartphones, on K-12 school grounds from the first bell to the last. As part of this new policy, the district submitted its districtwide policy to New York State, along with sharing a survey for families/caregivers to provide community feedback. The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) below provide answers to those inquiries.
As a reminder, the district’s cell phone policy can be found here on our district website.
Governor Hochul’s announcement can be located here.
What about earbuds, smartwatches, smart glasses, and other similar devices?
All electronic devices are included as part of the Distraction-Free Schools Law. This includes not only cell phones, but also the use of any internet-connected devices. All of these items are subject to the policy.
Do they need to keep their phone in the locker?
Yes, students in middle and high school can store their phones in their assigned lockers. Storage of cell phones and other internet-connected devices must be secured in their locker.
When will my child get the lock?
The district will provide locks for grades 5-12: grades 5 and 9 at orientation, and grades 6-8 and 10-12 during homeroom on the first day.
What if my child goes to BOCES?
Yes, students who attend BOCES will be expected to follow the same procedures as the district campus. Internet-connected devices are expected to stay in a secure location during BOCES instruction.
When does it need to be secured?
Cell phones and other internet-connected devices will be safely stored in the middle and high school buildings by 7:55 a.m. Elementary students will have their devices stored prior to the school day at 7:40 a.m.
When is it ok to be used again?
All cell phones and internet-enabled devices can be accessed by students at 2:29 p.m.
What about after-school detention?
School detention protocol will follow our bell-to-bell policy regarding cell phone use on campus.
What about field trips?
The district will allow students to have access to cell phones during field trips.
How will students sign up for the late bus if they used to use their phone for this?
We encourage students to use their assigned district Chromebook to sign up for the late bus.
In the event of an emergency, what will happen if phones are not available to call for help?
The district has multiple ways to rapidly request emergency services and law enforcement assistance as established in the District Safety Plan. The district will share status updates using the communication channels established, such as Parent Square. Please monitor your mailbox for district communications and continue to keep updated on district and building news through Parent Square. If you’re unaware of the Parent Square platform and do not currently have an account, you can learn more about it here.
What if they lose their lock?
If a student loses or misplaces their assigned lock, they must purchase a new lock from the district. The cost of a new lock is $10.00.
Can I buy their own lock?
No, locks must be purchased from the school district.
How long are they expected to have their lock for?
At the completion of the school year, students are required to turn in their lock.
What if they forget their combination?
Building officials have information on file for students in the event they forget their combination information.
How can I get important messages to my child during the school day?
We ask that parents and caregivers reach out directly to your students(s) main office. District officials will share your message with students in a timely manner.
How can my child contact me?
When needed, any student can approach their teacher to share information with a parent. A student can ask the teacher to go to the building’s main office to facilitate this communication.
What if a student doesn’t use the lock on their locker?
All students will be issued a lock. It is the student’s responsibility to utilize the lock to protect their device. It is expected that the lock always stays on the locker.
What happens if a student is caught violating this policy?
As with all violations, we will follow the Code of Conduct, which can be found on the school website.