Good morning, Eagles,

We can't wait to welcome you back tomorrow! By now, you have heard and read a number of reminders for the NYS Law that goes into effect tomorrow--the first day of school. Here are some important highlights (one more time): 

Beginning in the 2025–26 school year, a new statewide Distraction-Free Schools policy bans the unsanctioned use of smartphones or internet-enabled personal devices during the school day (7:45AM-2:22PM), including class time, lunch, and study halls. Students needing to contact parents must do so through the main office.This new policy supports a distraction-free learning environment to keep students focused and engaged and is aligned with New York State Education Law 2803 and the Board of Education Policy 7316.

What is the new Distraction-Free Schools policy?
From 7:45 a.m. until 2:22 p.m., student cell phones and personal internet-enabled devices (i.e., smartwatches, tablets, computers, wireless headphones/earbuds/AirPods, any device capable of internet access and messaging) must be turned off and placed in a student’s locker. This includes lunch and passing time between periods. Use is only permitted after the school day ends. To help reduce distractions and the temptation of connecting to phones and other devices through Bluetooth, students should bring wired headphones/earbuds for their academic needs. If a student does not have wired headphones/earbuds, the district will provide a pair for them.

When can you use your phones/internet-enabled device(s)?

• Before 7:45 a.m. – Allowed

  • 7:40 a.m. – There will be a P.A. announcement to remind you to store their devices in their lockers. 

• After 2:22 p.m. – Allowed

• On the bus before and after school -– Allowed

• During the school day (7:45 a.m.–2:22 p.m.) – Not Allowed

• WTCC/New Vision/Multi-Occ bus – Not Allowed

What happens if you are seen with their phone or internet-enabled device during the school day (7:45 a.m.–2:22 p.m.)?
To support a focused and distraction-free learning environment, you are not permitted to have cell phones or other internet-enabled devices visible during school hours.  If your device is seen or heard during this time — whether it's being used or not — it will be collected and secured in the main office for the remainder of the day.

• The phone/device will only be released to a parent or guardian in person.

• You will not be able to pick it up themselves.

• An office referral will be written and repeated violations may result in additional consequences, including loss of other privileges.

How can you reach your parent(s)guardian(s) during the school day?

You can request to use the main office phone. Parents who need to reach their child during the school day can call or email the main office at (315-524-1050) or hsmainoffice@waynecsd.org (email address will be active on 9/2). 

Does this apply to all grades?
Yes. The policy applies to all Wayne Central High School students.

Why such a strict policy?
Not only is this the law, but we want to give you the best opportunity to focus on learning, build real-world communication skills, and engage with peers face-to-face. Eliminating phone use during the school day removes one of the largest sources of distraction and conflict in schools.

What if there is a lockdown or other emergency in the building? 

In the event of a lockdown or other emergency, the school will communicate with families through official channels, such as ParentSquare, phone calls, or emails. In an emergency, it’s essential for safety that you focus on following the directions of your teacher and other school staff. While it may seem helpful for you to use cell phones during a crisis, research shows that it actually creates more risks by distracting students from safety instructions, spreading misinformation, and disrupting emergency response efforts. 

What if you have a medical condition that must be medically monitored using your phone? 

If you have a medical condition that requires a phone or other device for medical monitoring, the school will work with you and your physician to create a plan that accommodates their health needs.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation with this new law/policy. 

See you soon,

Ms. Senecal, Mr. Teeter, and Dr. Berger