Dear Pearl River Students and Families,

The internet enabled device ban for students, more widely known as the cell phone ban, became law in May when the State budget was finalized. Introduced by Governor Hochul, and supported by the New York State Legislature, the law requires districts and schools to be prepared for its implementation for the return to school this year. 

Last evening, the Board of Education, in compliance with the requirements of the new law, adopted a policy (Policy 5695) that will go into effect as we begin the 2025-2026 school year, prohibiting student use of smartphones and similar internet-enabled devices during the school day for the Pearl River Schools.

This statewide “bell-to-bell” ban on personal internet-enabled devices, includes cell phones, smart watches and tablets. Students in middle and high school must keep their personal devices in their lockers. Elementary students’ devices will be stored in designated classroom locations.

In devising its policy, the district consulted with local stakeholders including employee organizations representing each bargaining unit, parents, and students. The law was enacted to reduce distractions and ensure that students remain focused on their academic responsibilities throughout the entire school day, from bell to bell. We recognize that the policy represents a major shift for everyone, especially for our high school students and families who have been accustomed to having their personal devices available to them during the course of the school day, within the guidelines established by the school. As we go forward with the implementation of this policy in the new school year we expect that it will be accompanied by a learning curve as we adjust to new practices. It is the district’s intention to provide students with the support they need as we experience this change. 

Thank you for your support and understanding. 

Sincerely,

Marco F. Pochintesta, Ed. D.

This is a New York State law that requires a bell-to-bell cell phone and personal device ban for students. While this is not a district initiative, we support the regulation due to the growing concerns around student mental health, focus, and well-being. Research and school-based evidence show that limiting access to personal devices during the school day reduces distractions, improves student engagement, and supports a healthier learning environment.

We know this policy represents a significant shift. Our goal is to support students in being fully present in their learning, in building resilience and interpersonal connections, and in protecting their mental health. Thank you for your partnership as we work together to create the best learning environment for all students.

All personal internet-enabled electronic devices, including cell phones and smartwatches, are included. Smartwatches have become just as distracting and often serve the same function as phones.

Students will be required to keep their internet-enabled devices turned off and stored in lockers during the school day at the middle and high school buildings. At the elementary level, no adjustments are needed, as students have already been following a practice of storing devices in designated classroom locations with the devices turned off. That protocol will remain in place.

While the District had originally planned to have students keep their phones off and away in their backpacks, clarification from both the Office of the Governor and the New York State Education Department (NYSED) indicated that backpacks “… are not an allowable storage solution.” Please see these links for more information.

From NYSED: 2025 Distraction-Free Schools: Guidance

From the Office of the Governor: Distraction-Free Schools: Implementation Resources

Students may use the phone in the main office. We understand concerns around privacy, and our staff will provide support to help students feel comfortable making necessary calls.

No. The mandate is bell-to-bell, which includes lunch periods.

Yes. In case of emergency, the main office and counseling offices phones are available. Additionally, the belief that personal devices make emergency situations safer is often inaccurate. During real emergencies, mass personal device use can lead to confusion, spread misinformation, interfere with first responders, and overwhelm communication systems.

On a first offense, students will be asked to put their phone away. Repeated offenses will be considered insubordination and subject to disciplinary action as outlined in the Code of Conduct.

Study halls are intended for academic work. Students can read, write, complete assignments, or access school-approved content on Chromebooks. If all work is completed, they can also request library access.

Students will have their phones at the end of the day and can coordinate plans then. Additionally, teachers and coaches can communicate via ParentSquare, as well as sportsYou. Families should ensure students are clear on after-school expectations before they leave for school in the morning.

Smartwatches, even with limited features, still allow discreet communication and can be used inappropriately. At this time, all smartwatches are included in the ban to ensure consistency and minimize distraction.

We understand that separation from devices may initially be difficult. Staff will be available to support students in the transition. If a student has a documented need, families should work with their child’s counselor to explore appropriate accommodations.

No. The policy is required by the state to be enforced consistently throughout the instructional day, including study halls and lunch. This clarity helps ensure fairness and effectiveness.

ParentSquare  will continue to be used for communication, and we encourage families to check messages at the end of the day. Staff will work to provide timely and accessible updates. As in the past, students will receive announcements during or at the end of the day regarding schedule changes for sports or clubs.

Parents can always call the main office. We will ensure that students receive important messages in a timely and discreet manner.