Internet-Enabled Devices for Students During the School Day

Overview

A new state law now requires all schools–including BOCES–to limit student use of internet-enabled devices like smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets during the school day on school grounds.

FAQs

Why the change? This law–and our new local policy–aims to help students stay focused, reduce distractions, and support stronger learning environments. Our policy is being developed with input from families, students, and staff across our organization.

What does this mean for students? Students won’t be using personal internet-enabled devices during the school day– including non-instructional times like lunch, recess, and transitions. Exceptions exist for approved educational purposes, health needs, emergencies, and specific student plans like IEPs or 504s.

Where will devices go during the day? Devices will need to be stored in designated, secure areas–like lockers, bins, or main office storage. Each division will share specific procedures with staff and students before the school year starts.

Should students bring devices at all? In many cases, it may be easiest to encourage students to simply leave their devices at home. That way, there’s no risk of distraction or mix-ups during the day. If a student does bring a device, it must be stored according to the school’s procedures.

How can parents contact students during the day? Each division will have options like calling the main office, emailing a monitored address, or using a secure messaging platform. These methods will be communicated to families before the school year begins.

Can staff still use their phones? Yes. The policy applies to students only. Staff can continue using devices as needed for their roles–communication, scheduling, instruction, etc. That said, we all play a part in modeling respectful and professional device use. Let’s leave the Facebook scrolling for after work hours.

More to come. Look for division-specific procedures soon. Your building or program will provide details on storage, student reminders, and ways to keep communication flowing smoothly. Thanks for your support in making our schools focused, safe, and distraction-free learning environments!