Internet Distraction Free School Zones

Cell Phone and Personal Device Policy

In compliance with the New York State’s distraction free policy, student use of personal, internet-enabled devices and the associated headphones/headsets (Bluetooth enabled accessories), are prohibited during the entire school day (bell to bell), including all instructional and non instructional times (e.g., homeroom, lunch, recess, study halls, passing time). Personal, internet-enabled devices include but are not limited to: smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, or other devices capable of connecting to the internet and enabling the user to access content on the internet, including social media applications.

New York State Distraction Free School Zones - New York State Seal, Buffalo Public School Seal, No Cell Phone Symbol

*At no time is the school responsible for replacing a lost/stolen, damaged, or misplaced electronic devices as described above.

Device Storage

All non-district issued electronic devices brought to school will be collected using a coat-check system for students in Grades 2-8. Electronic devices for students in Grades Pre-K –Grade 1 will be collected and stored in the student’s homeroom. All electronic devices will be kept in a secure location and returned at dismissal.

Methods of Communication for Parents to Contact their Child During the School Day

To accommodate necessary communication, parents or guardians may use the following methods to contact their student during school hours while adhering to this policy:

a) School Office Phone: Parents or guardians may call the school's main office, and the office staff can relay messages to the student or call the student to the office to speak with their parents or guardians.

b) Classroom telephone system: In case of an emergency, the school's main office can use the classroom telephone to notify the classroom teacher directly. Students can be asked to report to the main office.

c) Parents or guardians may use the classroom teacher’s Class Dojo to send a message to their child.

d) Written Notes: Parents or guardians can drop off written notes at the school's main office, which can then be delivered to the student by school staff.

Enforcement and Consequences

  • First Offense - Device confiscated. Parent notification. Warning. Returned to student at the end of the school day.

  • Second Offense - Device confiscated. Parent notification. Warning. Returned to parent.

  • Third Offense and beyond - Device confiscated. Parent notification. Additional school consequences. Returned to parent.

  • Refusal to Comply - May be subject to progressive discipline.

Any questions, please contact the school (716) 816-3767.