Board holds first reading of electronic device policy required by state law

South Orangetown Central School District held a first reading of a policy to regulate student personal electronic devices after the district said it must adopt a policy required by New York State law.

The superintendent explained that “New York State education law, section 2803, … requires us to adopt the policy by August 1.” The superintendent said the law went into effect May 9, 2025, and the district is aligning its language with model guidance used by other districts.

District officials said the policy’s goals are to reduce classroom distractions, support student mental health and enhance academic engagement. The superintendent said the district already has school protocols for storing devices and that the policy will include exceptions for instructional use, health‑related needs and other circumstances.

Board members discussed the complexity of the statewide mandate and urged patience from families as the district implements the change. The superintendent said the district plans to adopt the policy over the summer and that adoption would occur by Aug. 1, either at the July 8 meeting or via an interim action prior to the deadline.

No final action was taken at the meeting beyond the first reading. The policy is listed on the agenda as Policy 5695, “Students and Personal Electronic Devices,” and district staff said they have consulted neighboring districts and New York State School Boards Association guidance to craft language that fits local instructional goals.

Board members said they would attempt to explain the new rules to parents, noting some exceptions and operational details may be confusing at first.