Enacted August 2025

Distraction-Free Schools

In May 2025, Governor Hochul announced the implementation of plans to create a state-wide policy for distraction-free school days. This policy is set to begin with the 2025-2026 school year.

Cell Phone/Internet-Enabled Devices Policy for 2025-2026

The following policy applies to all personal cell phones, headphones, ear buds, Airpods etc. At this time, students may still use personal laptops/tablets and smartwatches, however, the use of those items to engage in behavior that is prohibited will warrant consequences and further evaluation of school policy.
Cell Phone use will be prohibited during the school day (7:45AM-2:30PM) anywhere on school grounds. This includes all instructional and non-instructional time, including but not limited to homeroom, passing time, study halls, break period, and lunch.
School grounds means anywhere within the building and on school property.

Exceptions may include:
● where necessary for the management of a student’s health care
● for translation services
● where required by law
● if included in a student’s IEP Program

Students are required to store their cell phones in their personal backpacks or purses. They must be placed in their backpack/purse out of sight by the beginning of homeroom/ 7:45AM. Alternatively, students may lock their phones in their school-issued locker for the duration of the school day. Students will be instructed to turn off their device or set to “do not disturb” by their homeroom teachers.

Methods for Parent-Student Contact During the School Day

If a parent/guardian needs to communicate with a student during the school day, one of the following methods may be used:
● Main Office at 716-877-1358: School personnel will relay any messages to students or call students to the Office to speak with parents/guardians.
● Classroom telephone system: in case of an emergency, school personnel can use the classroom telephones to notify classroom teachers directly. Students can be asked to report to the main office
● School email system: all students have access to a school-sanctioned email account.
Should a student need to contact a parent/guardian during the school day, the student can report to the Main Office or any office in School Life to use the school phone system.

Consequences of Violation

The first violation of the policy will result in 3 detentions.
The second violation of the policy will result in 6 detentions.
A third violation will result in alternative storage of device(s) for the school day.