The new New York State Bell-to-Bell” cell phone and internet-enabled devices ban in schools begins this school year for all grade levels.
The law, part of the state’s recently passed 2025-26 fiscal year budget, aims to reduce distractions, promote learning and support student well-being in the school environment.
Please note: This new law requires the district to be in full compliance effective the first day of school, which is Wednesday, Sept. 3.
This means no personal electronic devices will be allowed in student hands from the moment they enter a school building or are on school grounds until they leave for the day. This includes all school activities, including class time, lunch, free periods and passage time between classes.
This new law includes a ban on the use of student personal phones, tablets and smart watches. School-issued devices are exempt from this policy, and will not impede the appropriate use of technology in the classroom.
The Board of Education will adopt the district's Student Cell Phone and Personal Electronic Devices Ban Policy at its Aug. 7 meeting. This policy addresses how the law will be enforced in all buildings, as well as exemptions and exceptions. Please note that students with IEPs or 504 plans that require device use and those managing medical conditions will be exempt from the state law.
Minisink Valley School District Student Cell Phone and Internet-Enabled Device Policy
A dedicated website page on this new state-mandated law can be viewed by clicking here: “Bell-to-Bell” cell phone/personal internet enabled devices ban
As you know, the district has had a longstanding policy of no cell phone use during the school day for K-8 students. However, we recognize there may be an adjustment period for some of our high school students. For all students, we ask for your support in preparing students and helping the district to be in compliance with this state law, which we believe will boost student engagement, reduce distractions, support student well-being and reduce behavioral issues tied to social media usage.
Additionally, please know this new “Bell-to-Bell” cell phone and personal internet enabled devices ban policy will now be incorporated into the district’s Code of Conduct.
We also understand the need for parents/guardians to stay connected with their children and have the ability to communicate with their children during the school day. Please know students will always have the ability to contact their parents/guardians during the school day via the main office of their school building, and parents will always have the ability to leave a message for their children in the same way.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership in the education of your children.