Akron Connected June 2025

Dear Akron Central Schools Families,

We are writing to let you know about a new state law—New York Education Law Title 2, Article 55, Section 2803—that requires all public schools to develop and enforce a policy restricting student use of personal internet-enabled devices (such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches) on school grounds during the entire school day. This policy must be in place by August 1, 2025, and is intended to reduce digital distractions and support student learning throughout the instructional day, including lunch and passing times.

What does this mean?

• Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, students will not be allowed to use personal internet-enabled devices (like smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches that can access the internet or social media) during the school day anywhere on school grounds.
• Devices supplied by the district for educational purposes are not included in this ban.
• The school day includes all time students are on campus for instruction, lunch, recess, study halls, and passing time.

Key points of the new law:

• We must create a written policy, with input from parents, students, and staff, before it is adopted.
• The policy will include ways for parents to contact their child during the day.
• There will be secure storage options for students’ personal devices while at school.
• Certain exceptions to the rule are allowed:
  • When a teacher or administrator allows use for a specific educational purpose
  • For student healthcare needs
  • In emergencies
  • For translation services
  • For student who are primary caregivers with special responsibilities (upon review)
  • When required by a student’s IEP or 504 Plan
• The policy will be posted on our website no later than August 1, 2025, and can be translated into other languages upon request.
• Each year, we will report on how the policy is enforced, including data on disciplinary actions (without identifying students) and any actions taken if enforcement is found to be unfair.

Click the button below to view the Board of Education presentation from the May 28th meeting as well as additional information regarding policy formation.

Your voice matters:

We want to hear your thoughts, concerns, and feedback about this new legislation. Your input will help us create a policy that works for our community and will help us advocate on your behalf with lawmakers. Please consider taking a moment to complete the survey below. Thank you for partnering with us as we work to support student learning and wellbeing.