The following letter is being mailed and emailed to all parents, guardians, and caregivers who have children registered for school in the district. We will continue to share information throughout the summer. You can find communications and updates on our website here.
Please submit questions through Let's Talk.
June 23, 2025
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers,
We're writing to share important information about a new state cell phone policy that will be implemented across our district, effective at the start of the 2025-2026 school year. This policy mandates bell-to-bell restrictions on phone use, meaning students will not be permitted to use cellphones or any personal internet-enabled devices at any point during the school day to ensure a focused learning environment.
While we recognize that cell phones serve as valuable tools for communication and information access, their use during the school day can disrupt instruction, detract from learning, and contribute to challenges such as cyberbullying. Through the implementation of this policy, we aim to:
Improve student focus and concentration during class.
Minimize distractions and disruptions to the learning process.
Reduce instances of cyberbullying and other inappropriate online interactions.
Promote more meaningful interactions between students and staff.
Overview of Policy Expectations
Cell phone use, including texting, calling, and accessing social media is prohibited during the entire school day. This includes time before class, during class, passing periods, recess, and lunch.
Implementation Plan by Grade Level (Effective September 2025):
Grades Pre-K through 2
If a student brings a cell phone to school, it must be stored in a secure lockbox in the main office for the full school day.
Devices will not be accessible to students during the day and will be returned at dismissal.
Grades 3 - 5
Students who bring a device will place it in a classroom lockbox upon arrival.
Devices will remain secured and inaccessible (including during recess and lunch) until dismissal.
Grades 6 - 12
Students who bring a cell phone to school will be provided with a secure, lockable pouch.
Students will keep their device sealed in the pouch and carry it or store it in their locker throughout the day.
Pouches will be unlocked at the end of the school day.
Additional Restrictions
The use or possession of other internet-enabled devices including, but not limited to, smartwatches and tablets will not be permitted during the school day.
Daily Procedures
Upon arrival, students must turn off their devices and secure them in the assigned storage (lockbox or pouch).
Students are responsible for bringing their pouches to and from school daily.
If a student forgets their pouch, the device will be stored securely by a designated staff member until dismissal.
Students who leave and return during the school day are required to repeat the storage process upon re-entry.
Communication with Families During the School Day:
If a student needs to contact a parent, guardian, or caregiver during the school day, they may request to use the main office phone.
Families who need to reach their child during the school day should contact the school’s main office.
Policy Violations
Violations of the cell phone policy will result in consequences as outlined in our Code of Character, Conduct, and Support.
Your Partnership Matters
We greatly appreciate your support in helping us implement this important policy. Please take time to review and discuss these changes with your child, emphasizing the purpose and benefits of a focused, safe learning environment.
In the coming weeks, we will provide additional information, including details about summer information sessions for parents, guardians, and caregivers. Please watch for further updates via email, our website, and social media.
Together, we can ensure a positive and productive school experience for all students. Thank you for your partnership, cooperation, and understanding.
Sincerely,
Carlos M. Cotto, Jr.
Superintendent of Schools
Download a pdf of this letter