P.S. 36 Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy
September 2025
P.S. 36 Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy
PURPOSE:
To create an environment conducive to learning by minimizing distractions caused by cell phones and other personal internet-enabled electronic devices, ensure the safety and focus of all students during school the school day, and follow Education Law §2803, effective August 1, 2025, all New York State schools are required to adopt a policy that prohibits the use of personal internet-enabled devices during the school day on school grounds. An "internet-enabled electronic device" is defined as an electronic device capable of connecting to the internet and enabling the user to access content on the internet. Examples of such devices include cell phones, smartphones, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, iPads, and portable music and entertainment systems.
POLICY STATEMENT:
Students will not be permitted to use or access their personal internet-enabled electronic devices upon arrival at school until the end of the school day. The school day is defined as the period from the moment students enter the school grounds until the last class of the day ends, including during breakfast and lunch. The school day starts at 7:50am and ends at 2:40pm. Students will be able to use school and NYCPS-issued devices during the school day.
- COLLECTION/STORAGE:
- Upon arrival, students must power off their devices.
- The school will collect devices:
- Under the supervision of staff members, devices will be collected. At designated collection points (yard, gym, lunchroom and/or classrooms), students will place electronic devices into a labeled pouch. Then, students will place the pouch into a lockbox which will be stored until the end of the school day. At the end of the school day, devices will be distributed by school staff in classrooms prior to dismissal. Devices must remain off until dismissed.
- Students who were late or had their device confiscated will have to pick up their device from the Main Office, Room 163.
- Students with approved early dismissal will retrieve their devices from the Main Office, Room 163.
- EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS:
- In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, parents or guardians can call
Ms. Karina Ali (Parent Coordinator) at 718-822-5345 to reach their child.
- In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, students may access phones in the Main Office, Room 163 to reach their parents or guardians.
- In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, the school will use GAMA to communicate information to parents or guardians.
- Here is how parents/guardians can access the automated messaging system: Directions for setting up NYCSA account to access GAMA messages.
- EXCEPTIONS:
- Students are allowed to use their device if they have an individualized education program (IEP) or 504 Plan that includes use of an internet-enabled device and do not have a DOE-issued device for such purpose.
- Parents/guardians must contact Ms. Rachelynn Cruz (Assistant Principal) at 718-822-5345 if a student requires an exception for reasons such as: medical reasons (for example to monitor blood sugar or other similar circumstances), if student is a caregiver, for approved language purposes (such as translation or interpretation services if no other means are available), or where otherwise required by law.
- Exceptions will be processed and approved within 2 weeks of request.
- DISCIPLINE:
- Students who use electronic devices in violation of the NYCPS Discipline Code, the school's policy, Chancellor's Regulation A-413, and/or the NYCPS Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy ("IAUSP") will be subject to progressive discipline. This means that the disciplinary responses will escalate based on the nature and frequency of the violation.
- S. 36 Ladder of Progressive Discipline:
1st Offense: Verbal Warning
2nd offense: Device is confiscated and returned at the end of the day
3rd offense: Device is confiscated and a parent must pick up the device
- As provided in the State law, a student may not be suspended solely on the grounds that the student accessed a personal internet-enabled device in violation of school policy. Repeated incidents of insubordination (i.e. refusal to surrender or store device) may result in a suspension if approved by the Office of Safety and Youth Development.
- OTHER: IF LOST OR STOLEN:
- In the unlikely event that an electronic device is stolen or damaged at school, parents can submit a claim to the Comptroller’s Office. More information on submitting a claim is available on the Comptroller’s webpage.
We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a focused and productive learning environment. If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding these policies, please do not hesitate to contact Karina Ali (Parent Coordinator) at 718-822-5345.
