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 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. The school day generally starts at 8:00 AM and ends at 2:16 PM. Students will continue to be able to use school-issued devices during the school day.
1. STORAGE
• Upon arrival, students must power off their devices.
• Students will place their devices in their NuGerm case and lock it in front of school staff.
• Students will store the locked case in their bag or locker during the school day.
• At the end of the school day, students will unlock their case in their Period 8 classroom or next to Staircase D, outside the student bathrooms.
• Students will remove their device(s) and take home their unlocked pouches.
• Students who leave school early with a parent can unlock their case in the Main Office.
• In the event that the NuGerm case or other pouch is lost or damaged, the school will require a $10 fee for a replacement.
• Students who do not bring their NuGerm case to school will have their phone collected and stored upon entry, and returned after school in the Main Office.
• Students who arrive late to school may have their device collected and stored upon entry and returned after school in the Main Office.
2. EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
• In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, parents or guardians can call our Parent Coordinator, Ms. Lam, at 718-353-0009 x4234 or our Secretary, Ms. Cavounis, at 718-353-0009 x02 and we will connect you
• In case of a school emergency or exigent circumstances, the school will use GAMA to communicate information to parents or guardians.
All parents should ensure that your phone number and e-mail address are up to date to ensure that you receive any emergency communication that comes from the school.
3. EXCEPTIONS
• Parents/guardians must contact our Parent Coordinator, Ms. Lam, at 718-353-0009 x4234, or alam14@schools.nyc.gov, if a student requires an exception for reasons such as: medical monitoring/treatment (for example to monitor blood sugar or other similar circumstances), if student is a caregiver, or where otherwise required by law.
• The principal/designee may authorize use for an educational purpose.
• Exceptions will be processed and approved within five school days.
• Note: all students who are entitled to translation and interpretation services will have access to school-issued translation devices.
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. 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.
• Students with repeated infractions may be required to have their device collected by school staff upon entering the school building. Devices will be returned after school.
5. OTHER: If Damaged or Stolen
• In the unlikely event that an electronic device is stolen or damaged at school, parents should notify the school and 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 our Parent Coordinator, Ms. Lam, at 718-353-0009 x4234, or alam14@schools.nyc.gov
