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2025-26 Cell Phone Policy

girl with a cell phone in hand

2025-26 Cell Phone Policy

South Colonie follows State’s Distrction Free Schools Law for Bell to Bell Smartphone Restriction

Beginning with the 2025–26 school year, South Colonie will implement a “bell-to-bell” ban on cell phones and personal internet-enabled devices (such as earbuds, headphones, smartwatches, etc.) for students in grades PK–12. This means students will not have access to these devices from the start of the school day until dismissal, including during lunch period and study halls.

Students will be required to power off and store their devices in their lockers at the start of each school day. Devices are not to be carried in pockets, bags, or on their person during school hours. Accommodations will be made for students who require access to a device due to a medical condition or for translation purposes.

This model has already been implemented at the middle school level, where it has proven effective in reducing distractions, improving classroom focus, and supporting a more positive learning environment.

  • Improved Focus and Academic Performance
    Removing phones during instructional time reduces distractions, allowing students to better engage with lessons, participate in class discussions, and retain information. This often leads to stronger academic outcomes.
  • Stronger Social and Emotional Development
    Without phones, students are more likely to interact face-to-face, building communication skills, empathy, and meaningful peer relationships—all critical for emotional growth and school connectedness.
  • Reduction in Cyberbullying and Social Pressures
    A consistent ban minimizes the chance for in-school social media use, limiting opportunities for cyberbullying, comparison-based anxiety, and other negative effects of online interactions during the school day.