Distraction-Free Schools

dfs

Beginning in the 2025–2026 school year, New York State’s “Distraction-Free Schools” policy will take effect in all public school districts throughout the State. Students may only use their school issued internet enabled devices during the school day.  

Announced in May 2025, New York State's "Distraction Free School" policy requires districts to implement a comprehensive restriction on student use of internet-enabled personal devices during the school day. This statewide initiative is designed to promote a more focused, engaged learning environment by minimizing digital distractions. Under the legislation, students are not permitted to use devices such as smartphones, smartwatches, or tablets at any time during the school day while on school grounds; including lunch, recess, passing time, and study hall. District-issued internet enabled devices are exempt from the ban. To align with the state’s legislation, the Port Washington Board of Education has adopted Policy 5695, and updated the District's Code of Character, Culture, and Conduct.
New York State Policy Information
Port Washington Policy Information

Policy Implementation


Elementary Schools

At the elementary school level, students are discouraged from bringing personally-owned internet-enabled devices to school. Any such device that is brought to school must be silenced and kept in the student’s backpack. 


Middle School

At the middle school level, personally-owned internet-enabled devices brought to school must be silenced and stored in the student’s locker.


High School 

At the high school level, personally-owned internet-enabled devices brought to school must be silenced and stored in the student’s backpack or lockers.


Communication with Parents/Guardians/Persons in Parental Relation

 

During the school day, to minimize distractions, parents/guardians may contact their child by calling the school’s administrative office. Students may contact their parent(s)/guardian(s) from an administrative office. 

Exceptions for Specific Purposes

Use of a personally-owned internet-enabled device must be permitted where included in a student’s IEP, Section 504 plan, or where required by law. Additionally, the District permits the use of personally-owned internet-enabled devices under the following circumstances:
 
1. Where necessary to manage a student’s healthcare (e.g., diabetes, asthma, medication, etc.);
2. For translation services; and/or
3. For students who are routinely responsible for the care and well-being of a family member (on a case-by-case basis, upon review and determination by a school psychologist, school social worker, or school counselor).

Parents/guardians may request an exception for their child to use a personally-owned internet-enabled device during the school day as listed above. Requests must be made in writing to the Building Principal and, for healthcare exceptions, must include documentation from an appropriate licensed medical professional.