Cell Phone Policy

At P721R, we are committed to creating a focused, engaging, and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive. As part of this commitment, we are implementing NYC Public Schools’ new citywide policy on cell phones and electronic devices effective September 4, 2025. This policy is aligned to New York state law and Chancellor's Regulation A-413.  

 

● All NYC public schools are required to have a policy that prohibits student use of personal internet-enabled devices during the school day and on school grounds, from start of day 7:40am to end of day 2:00pm. 

● Students may still bring cell phones and other internet-enabled devices to school, but cannot use them during the school day unless an approved exception applies.

● All students who bring an internet-enabled device to school must turn it off before entering the building. An assistant principal or site staff will store the device in a safe for the school day.

 ● School laptops or tablets are permitted.

 

● Smartphones ● Smart watches ● Tablets

 

Exceptions may be made by for:  Families requesting this exception will email Parent Coordinator Lori Bosco to review with IEP Coordinator within 5 business days.

● Medical needs

● Requirements by a student's Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 plan

● Student caregiver responsible for the care of a family member

● In individual emergency situations, when the parent has notified school leadership of the specific nature of the emergency.

● Upon arrival, students must power off their devices.

● A designated collection point, supervised by school staff or assistant principal, will be set up in the site office at each of the 11 buildings during arrival. ● Devices will be stored in safes with 32 slots and each slot will have the room number and initials of student. At the end of the school day, devices will be distributed by school staff before bussing.

 

Policy Violations: Students who use a device without an approved exception will not be suspended, but the school may take progressive disciplinary steps as outlined in the Discipline Code such as:

● Confiscating the device ● Contacting parents ● Having a parent or guardian pick up the device at school

● The main office and ask for the Parent Coordinator or Assistant Principal at your child's specific location. ● The Parent Coordinator- Lori Bosco [email protected] ● Classroom Teacher via Class Dojo/Remind/Parent Square

●If there is an emergency involving your child, and you have informed the principal or other school staff members about the specific nature of the emergency, your child will be allowed to use their device to contact you or we will provide students with access to a school phone line, that will allow students to make emergency calls when necessary.● In the event of an emergency at school, school staff members will contact students' families directly.

Other: If a student reports an electronic device is stolen or damaged at school, schools will:

● Notify the family

● File an incident OORS report ● Notify the New York City Police Department (NYPD) if theft or other criminal activity is suspected