Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Policy Student Devices topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board hears update on proposed state 'bell-to-bell' phone ban; local policy choices, funding still unclear
Summary
Board members were briefed on a proposed amendment to Education Law 2803 to require local policies restricting student access to personal internet-enabled devices from arrival to last bell; the district said the governor included $30.5 million in the budget for devices/locks but distribution is unclear and local implementation questions remain.
Board member Christina Costanza summarized a policy workshop and a proposed state-level change to student-device rules. She said the governor, the state Senate and the Assembly had competing proposals but the gist under discussion in Albany would require local boards to adopt policies restricting access to personal internet-enabled devices during the school day—potentially 'bell-to-bell' from arrival until the final bell—or at minimum prohibit device use during instruction.
Costanza explained the proposals would require local policy elements such as secure storage (lockable pouches, boxes or lockers), exemptions for students with medical needs or Individualized Education Program (IEP) accommodations, and communications protocols for parents to contact students. She said the Senate language was somewhat less prescriptive (requiring prohibition during instruction but allowing local extension), and that NISBA/NYSBA will issue sample policy guidance once legislation is finalized. Costanza noted the governor included $30.5 million in the proposed budget for implementation but that how funds would be allocated or whether the program would be fully funded was uncertain; she cautioned it could become an unfunded mandate depending on distribution decisions.
Board members raised practical concerns about enforcement, parent communications and emergency use; the district said it would await formal guidance and sample policies from statewide associations before proposing local changes.
Next steps: the board will monitor state guidance, await NISBA/NYSBA sample policy language and consider stakeholders' input if/when legislation finalizes.
