- Monroe One
- Student Use of Internet-enabled Devices
Student Use of Internet-enabled Devices
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The Monroe One Board of Education has adopted a new policy on student use of personal internet-enabled devices during the school day. This policy aligns with New York State's "Distraction-Free Schools" mandate. The goal is to create safe, engaging learning environments where students can be fully present - with Clear Minds, ONE Focus.
Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, students in Monroe One programs are required to:
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Keep personal internet-enabled devices off and stored in their program's designated location during the instructional day, unless specifically authorized by building leadership.
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Avoid using personal internet-enabled devices anywhere on school grounds during school hours, unless an exception has been granted.
Personal devices under this policy include, but are not limited to:
- cell phones
- smartwatches
- earbuds and wireless headphones
- tablets
- other items capable of connecting to the internet
Students will still have access to BOCES-issued devices that support their learning.
We know how important family communication is. If you need to reach your child during the day, please call your program's main office.
We appreciate your partnership in supporting this policy and encouraging your child to be present and engaged throughout the day. By working together, we can help all students focus on learning, connect with classmates, and build the skills they need to succeed.
Click here to view the Board Policy on Internet-Enabled Devices.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Why are students unable to use internet-enabled devices during the school day?
To increase student engagement and learning while removing distractions and improving mental health, New York State has required schools to create policies around students’ use of devices. This is in line with NYS Law 2803.
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What is an internet-enabled device?
Internet-enabled devices included, but are not limited to, cell phones, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, wireless headphones and earbuds, internet-connected accessories, recording devices, or any other device capable of connecting to the internet.
Any non-internet-enabled personal electronic devices that create a distraction to the learning environment may also be restricted during the instructional day in line with this policy.
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What do I do if I need to get in touch with my student during the day?
Parents and caregivers can contact the main office of their student’s program. Office staff will relay a message to a student or may call a student to the office if necessary.
Please use main office numbers for phone calls, staff emails, or ParentSquare for contacting Monroe One staff.
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What if my student needs to contact me during the school day?
Students can ask to use a school phone located in the main office or ask office staff to relay a message through email or ParentSquare.
In rare or urgent cases, administrators may allow temporary use of a student’s personal device to contact a parent or caregiver.
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Are smartwatches and other non-phone devices included in the policy?
Yes. Smartwatches and other devices with internet or messaging capabilities are considered internet-enabled devices and must also be stored during the school day.
Other items include cell phones, smartphones, tablets, earbuds or other devices capable of connecting to the internet and/or social media apps. This policy does not apply to the use of devices provided by Monroe One during the school day.
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What if my student needs their device for a medical reason?
If a student requires a personal device to manage a medical condition or disability, parents and caregivers can request an exception. To do so, complete an exception request form and submit it to the student’s principal for review.
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What are exceptions to this policy?
The state has allowed for families to request an exception for the following reasons:
- Educational accommodations, as written in the student’s IEP or 504 Plan.
- Bona fide medical or disability-related reasons which requires use of a device for the management of the student’s healthcare.
- Language translation needs/services.
- Bona fide caregiver reasons for students who are routinely responsible for the care and wellbeing of a family member.
- Other reasons as required by law.
Families looking to request an exception will need to fill out the exception form for a principal consideration.
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How will exceptions for IEPs or 540 plans be handled?
Students with IEPs or 504 plans that include device use will be supported in accordance with their plan. However, parents and caregivers still need to follow the process by:
- Filling out the exception form.
- Sending it to the program principal.
Principals will then determine a plan on how to implement device-use during the school day to support the student’s learning goals.
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Where will my student's device be kept during the day?
This will vary by school and program. Monroe One will provide on-site storage options – such as cubbies, pouches, or other centralized storage solutions. These will be based on the program’s logistics. Instructions will be shared with students on where and how to store their devices.
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Can students use their devices during lunch or breaks?
No, the New York State law applies from bell-to-bell. This includes non-instructional time such as lunch, passing times, and breaks.
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What if m y student believes their device was lost or damaged while in school storage?
Monroe One is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged devices. If there is a concern, we strongly recommend that your student leave the device at home and not bring it to school where it will be required to be stored. It is also recommended that students clearly label their devices.
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What if my student forgets their device at the end of the school day?
Staff will remind students to get their devices prior to dismissal. However, if a student forgets to take their device home, it will remain secured at school until the next school day. Devices will not be available for pickup after hours.
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What if my student refuses to turn in their device?
Students will be given reminders and encouraged to store their device properly. If they refuse to do so, an administrator may collect and secure the device. In most cases, that will require a parent or guardian to pick it up in person before it is given back to the student. This could result in consequences under the Code of Conduct.
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Where can I find additional information?
Additional information can be found by visiting monroe.edu/BOE and reading through:
Policy P5695 and form 5695-F or Regulation 5695-R.
