Board discusses state 'internet-enabled device' ban, district plans and policy adoption

A new state regulation that restricts student possession and use of internet-enabled devices on school property dominated discussion at the Baldwin Union Free School District Board of Education meeting on July 9, 2025.

Superintendent Dr. Sherry Cammy described the rule as "not just a cell phone ban" and said the regulation covers any student device capable of connecting to the internet — including cell phones, smartwatches and other wearables. She told the board the district had historically barred phones K–8 and allowed limited noninstructional phone use at the high school; the state regulation requires broader changes.

District staff said they are evaluating so-called "Yonder" (signal-blocking) pouches that allow students to keep devices on their person while preventing connectivity. The pouches use a…