The District recognizes the importance of maintaining a focused, respectful, and academically rigorous environment. The growing prevalence of personal internet-enabled devices, such as smartphones and smartwatches, has introduced new challenges related to distraction, equity, and safety. In response, and in accordance with state law, the District prohibits student use of personal internet-enabled devices during the school day on school grounds.

However, this policy is not intended to discourage the thoughtful and meaningful use of technology in the classroom. On the contrary, the District strongly supports the integration of digital tools-particularly those provided and managed by the school-to enhance instruction, foster engagement, and prepare students for success in a digitally connected world. Educators are empowered to incorporate technology in ways that align with curricular goals and instructional best practices.

This policy reflects a balanced approach: limiting non-educational distractions from personal devices while encouraging the structured, supervised use of technology for learning, accessibility, and communication when necessary. The goal is to ensure all students can learn in an environment that is safe, inclusive, and future-ready.

I. Purpose

This policy establishes guidelines for student use of internet-enabled devices during the school day on school grounds. The district aims to foster a safe, equitable, and academically focused learning environment while responsibly incorporating technology into instruction.

II. Definitions

• Internet-Enabled Devices: Smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other devices capable of internet access, excluding district-issued devices for educational purposes.

• School Day: All instructional and non-instructional time during a required school day.

• School Grounds: Any building, structure, athletic playing field, playground, or land contained within the real property boundary line of the school district .

Ill. General Prohibition

Students are prohibited from using personal internet-enabled devices during the school day anywhere on school grounds, unless explicitly authorized under Section V of this policy.

IV. Stakeholder Involvement

This policy was developed in consultation with teachers, union representatives, school counselors, students, and parent representatives, ensuring alignment with community values and educational goals.

V. Exceptions for Educational and Essential Use

Student use of internet-enabled devices may be permitted:

1. For specific educational purposes under teacher or administrator authorization.

2. When necessary for healthcare management (e.g., diabetes monitoring apps).

3. During emergencies or safety drills.

4. For translation services for English language learners.

5. For caregiving students, when determined appropriate by a counselor or school psychologist.

6. As required by law, including:

   • A student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) or

   • A Section 504 Plan under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

VI. Communication with Parents/Guardians

• During the school day, students and their parents or persons in parental relation may communicate via the school. The District will establish and maintain a dedicated phone line for parental communication with students during the school day.

• Parents/guardians will be informed, in writing, at the beginning of each school year and upon enrollment of methods to contact students during the school day.

• Emergency contact protocols will be maintained and communicated in writing.

VII. On-Site Storage

• Students must store personal internet-enabled devices in designated locations, such as

  lockers or district provided secured device pouches.

• Students are responsible for the safekeeping of personal devices; the district is not liable

  for loss or damage.

VIII. Publication & Accessibility

• This policy will be posted on the district's website by August 1, 2025.

• Upon parental or student request, the policy will be translated into the twelve most

  common non-English languages spoken by limited-English proficient individuals in New York State based on the most recent American community survey published by

  the United States census bureau

IX. Annual Reporting and Equity Monitoring

• Beginning September 1, 2026, the district will publish an annual report analyzing

  enforcement data and any demographic disparities.

• If disparities are found, the report will include a mitigation plan.

• No student may be suspended solely for violating this policy.