5031 - Internet-Enabled Device Policy

This policy has been established to ensure compliance with Section 2803 of the New York State Education Law and to promote a safe and distraction-free learning environment for all students.

Definitions: as defined by Education Law §2803:

• Internet-Enabled Devices shall mean and include any smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or other device capable of connecting to the internet and enabling the user to access content online.
• School Day shall mean the entirety of every instructional day as required by subdivision seven of section 3604 of the Education Law. This includes all instructional and non-instructional time, such as homeroom periods, lunch, recess, study halls, and time between classes.
• School Grounds shall mean in or on, or within any building, structure, athletic field, playground, or land contained within the real property boundary line of any school in the District.

General Policy Statement: Except as otherwise specified in this policy, the use of internet-enabled devices by students is strictly prohibited during the school day on school grounds.

Device Storage Guidelines: Students are expected to store personal internet-enabled devices in designated areas during the school day as follows:

• Elementary Schools: In cubbies/ backpacks
• Middle Schools: In lockers/ backpacks
• High School (personal devices not authorized under this policy for instructional purposes) 
  • Classroom pouches at the discretion of the faculty
  • Backpacks, coats, pockets, etc. (devices must be out-of-sight during the school day while on school district property)

Elementary and middle school students are not permitted to use personal internet-enabled devices while traveling to or participating in field trips that take place during the school day.

Procedures & Practices for Horace Greeley High School Students

At Horace Greeley High School, students may:

• Bring their own devices to school (e.g., laptops, tablets) and use them for educational purposes during the school day on school grounds.
• Use internet-enabled devices other than laptops/tablets (e.g., cell phones) with explicit permission from a classroom teacher for instructional purposes.  
• Use internet-enabled devices other than laptops/tablets for schedule navigation while moving through the hallways to the next scheduled period. 

Students may not use these personal internet-enabled devices (e.g., cell phones, smartwatches) during the school day outside of this parameter.

HGHS students may also use internet-enabled devices during the school day for non-instructional purposes  (e.g., cell phones) for the following reasons as outlined in Education Law §2803: 

• When necessary for the management of a student’s healthcare needs;
• In the event of an emergency;
• For translation services;
• On a case-by-case basis with prior approval (ex. for a student who serves as a caregiver responsible for a family member’s wellbeing);
• When otherwise required by law.

Special Education and 504 Plans: Nothing in this policy shall prohibit a student from using an internet-enabled device where such use is required by:

• The student's Individualized Education Program (IEP); or
• A plan developed pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. §794).

Parental Communication During the School Day: Persons in parental relation to students who need to contact their children during the school day may do so by contacting the following school personnel by phone or email:

• Principal
• Assistant Principal
• Guidance Counselor
• School Psychologist
• School Social Worker 
• School Nurse
• Administrative Assistant

Disciplinary Considerations: The Code of Conduct will apply to disciplinary infractions related to internet-enabled devices. In accordance with Education Law §2803, a student shall not be suspended solely for accessing an internet-enabled device in violation of this policy.

Implementation: This policy shall be implemented in coordination with school administrators, faculty, and staff. 

Adopted - June 17, 2025