Purpose
To promote a safe, respectful, and distraction-free learning environment, the Science Academies of New York (SANY) prohibits the use of cell phones and personal electronic devices during the instructional day, unless explicitly permitted for educational purposes.
General Guidelines
- Cell phones and personal electronic devices must be powered off and stored in a designated location (e.g., lockers, backpacks, or collection bins) at the start of the school day.
- This includes, but is not limited to: phones, smartwatches, tablets, headphones, earbuds, gaming devices, cameras, and wearable tech. Any device capable of connecting to the internet.
- Devices may only be used under direct staff supervision for instructional purposes, with administrative approval.
Prohibited Use Areas & Times
Devices may not be used:
- During instructional time (including recess and lunch unless otherwise permitted)
- During transitions between classes
- During assemblies or school functions unless authorized
- In restrooms, locker rooms, or other areas where privacy is expected
- During any test, quiz, or assessment situation
- In violation of NYS Education Law regarding testing security, privacy, or cyberbullying
- In, on, or within any building, structure, athletic area, playground, or land within the real property boundary line of the charter school.
Elementary Students
- Strongly discouraged from bringing devices to school.
- If brought, they must remain off and stored in the student’s backpack all day.
Middle & High School Students
- Must store all electronic devices in designated lockers or as directed by administration before homeroom.
- Devices must remain off and secured until dismissal.
Consequences for Unauthorized Use
- 1st Offense: Device confiscated and returned to parent/guardian only
- 2nd Offense: Device held for 5 calendar days
- 3rd Offense: Device held for 10 calendar days, mandatory parent meeting + contract
- 4th Offense: Device held for 15 calendar days, formal disciplinary hearing
- Refusal to surrender device: Student will be sent home and issued a Code Blue referral for insubordination
Important Notes
- Devices will only be released to legal parents/guardians, never to the student, when there is a violation of this policy.
- SANY is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged electronic devices.
- No investigations will be conducted for missing or damaged personal devices.
- Students may not use personal hotspots to bypass school content filters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are you doing this?
We want healthy students who are 100% engaged in learning.
Can students use cell phones before and after school?
Yes.
Can students use cell phones on school buses?
Before and after school, yes.
Are there exceptions to this rule?
Yes. Examples of exceptions include students with medical conditions, individualized special education plans, 504 plans, or those in need of translation service may have a personalized device plan. Contact the dean to arrange.
How can students get messages to families?
Students can email families or make phone calls from the main office.
How can families get messages to students?
Families can call/email the school office or, if used in your building, official communication apps like Class Dojo.
Will teachers and staff be using cell phones during the school day?
Teachers and staff are expected to model "off and away" to be fully present during instruction.
How will students contact authorities in an emergency?
Students should go to a teacher or staff member. Phones are available in instructional areas.
What happens in a safety or weather event?
Families should monitor school communication platforms (phone, email, text, website/social media) for updates.
Can families communicate with teachers during a safety or weather event?
Yes. Parents can call/email the school office or, if used in your building, official communication apps like Class Dojo.
What happens if a student uses a phone inappropriately (cyberbullying, harassment, etc.)?
Consequences depend on the behavior and can include suspension, expulsion, or legal action.
