The Syosset Central School District Board of Education approved amendments to acceptable use policy 45‑26 to comply with a New York State budget provision requiring schools to ban internet‑enabled devices from the start of the first period to the end of the last period — a so‑called "bell‑to‑bell" restriction. Doctor Rogers told the board the law and a state education department FAQ require the district to adopt a compliant policy by Aug. 1.
The policy affects use of internet‑enabled devices during class periods, passing time, lunch and recess for secondary schools, the district said. Rogers said the state issued an FAQ in early July providing additional guidance on policy construction, and the district is incorporating that guidance into its acceptable use policy amendments.
Rogers said the state made modest funding available to districts for implementation; Syosset’s allocation is approximately $38,000. The district will evaluate how to spend that money most cost‑effectively and will prepare a guidance document for families explaining application of the policy at elementary, middle and high school levels.
Board member Mr. Ginsberg moved the amendment and Miss Levitan seconded. The transcript records the motion and the call for a vote but does not include a roll‑call tally in the public record provided; the meeting then proceeded to adjourn. The transcript does not list the full text of the amended policy or enforcement procedures; Rogers said the district will provide community guidance after adoption.