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Board reads five annual policies and a new student internet‑device policy; board approves reads
Summary
The board read five policies required for annual review and presented a proposed district policy restricting student use of internet‑enabled devices; the board approved the policies for read as presented on June 10.
At its June 10 meeting the Byram Hills Board of Education conducted the required annual reads of five district policies and presented a new draft policy governing student use of internet‑enabled devices.
What the board reviewed: the policies read for annual review included policy 1900 (renamed Parent, Guardian and Family Engagement), investment and purchasing policies (036240/6700 and regulation 6700R), and the district code of conduct (5300). The board also reviewed a new draft, policy 5695: Student Use of Internet‑Enabled Devices.
Device policy highlights presented by board member Jean and district administrators: - The draft would restrict use of internet‑enabled devices from “bell to bell” while on school grounds unless expressly approved for instructional use. - The district would provide at least one on‑site storage option for students who bring devices. - Exemptions would include medical needs, required translation services, accommodations under an IEP or Section 504 plan, and caregiver responsibilities; devices could also be used during emergencies with administrator or teacher permission. - The policy prohibits relying on suspension solely for an isolated device violation. - New reporting: the New York State Education Department will require districts to post an annual report starting September 2026 outlining enforcement and infractions related to the rule, the presentation said.
Board action: after discussion, the board president asked for a motion to accept the five annual reviews and the new electronic‑device policy as reads. The board called the question and the transcript records “All in favor,” indicating the motion passed by voice vote. The transcript did not record individual roll call votes.
Why it matters: the draft changes the daily device expectations for students K–12 and sets a formal reporting requirement linked to NYSED guidance. Administrators noted additional stakeholder review will continue: principals, union leaders and student groups will review the draft before an August 1 implementation deadline referenced in discussion.
Next steps: staff said auditors will review the investment and purchasing policies; principals, union presidents and student leaders will continue stakeholder review of the device policy; the district will prepare public reporting for the 2026 requirement.
