WESTMORELAND, N.Y.- State law requires schools to implement a plan when it comes to cell phone/internet-enabled device use during the school day.
Governor Kathy Hochul implemented a statewide “Distraction-Free Schools” policy for all K-12 schools across the state, which requires a “Bell-to-Bell” cell phone ban beginning in the fall for the 2025-2026 school year. This means students will not be able to use their smart phones, tablets, smartwatches, laptops (unless supplied by the district), and any other portable electronic communication or computing devices during the school day.
In our district, students will keep their phones in their lockers for the entire school day. They will get one warning at the beginning of the year. After that, if a student is seen with their phone at any point throughout the day, a staff member is allowed to take the phone and the student will pick it up at the end of the school day. If a student is seen with their phone out a second time, then a staff member will retrieve the phone and a parent/guardian will have to come to school to pick up the phone from the main office. Juniors and seniors who leave campus for lunch, will be allowed to take their phones with them, but they will need to be stored in their lockers when they return.
There are some exceptions to this state law which include:
Educational use-only if authorized by a teacher, principal or the District.
Health and Safety- if needed for managing a student’s healthcare, or in the event of an emergency.
Student Caregiver- this is a case-by-case basis, but if a student is responsible for the wellbeing of a family member, their situation will be reviewed by a school psychologist, school social worker, school counselor, or school or district level administrator to determine the need for an internet-enabled device during the school day.
Language needs- if needed by a student for translation purposes.
Legal requirements-when the use of these devices is required by law.
504/IEP Plans-if the student has a need for a device in their Individualized Education Program plan or 504 plan. This policy ensures students will get the necessary tools to learn to the best of their ability.
If parents need to contact their child for any reason, please call the main office at building they attend classes in everyday:
Primary Elementary: (315) 557-2637
Upper Elementary: (315) 557-2618
Jr./Sr. High School: (315) 557-2616
Jr./Sr. High School Counseling Office: (315) 557-2620
The view the policy click here!