South Brooklyn
Community High School

A new state law, Education Law §2803, enacted by Governor Kathy Hochul takes effect in all NYC public schools this Fall. This “bell-to-bell” policy requires:  All personal internet-enabled devices—including cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, smart glasses, and similar electronics— must be turned off and securely stored throughout the entire school day, from the first bell to the last. This policy is supported by the NYC Department of Education and is designed to minimize distractions and support a stronger learning environment.

 

SBCHS SCHOOL POLICY

CELL PHONES & OTHER PERSONAL INTERNET ENABLED DEVICES
Cell Phones, airpods, smartwatches, and other personal internet-enabled devices are not to be used during school. Devices will be collected on a daily basis, stored, and returned at the end of the school day. For more information visit: schools.nyc.gov/devicepolicy

Daily Cell Phone Collection Process

As students arrive at school, they are expected to follow these steps:

1. Power Down Devices
   Students must turn off their cell phones, AirPods, and smartwatches upon arrival.

2. Submit Devices to Staff
   All devices should be handed directly to designated school staff members.

3. Secure Storage
   Devices will be collected & stored in a school-issued pouch, in a secured location for the duration of the school day.

4. End-of-Day Return
   Devices will be returned to students at dismissal.

 

THE SCHOOL IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST OR STOLEN ITEMS. In the unlikely event that an electronic device is stolen or damaged at school, parents can submit a claim to the NYC Comptroller’s Office. More information on submitting a claim is available on the Comptroller’s webpage. 

 

Students with IEPs or 504 accommodations

Students with an individualized education program (IEP) or 504 Plan that includes use of an internet-enabled device will be issued a DOE-issued device for use from the school.

 

EXCEPTIONS

If a student requires an exception for reasons such as: medical monitoring/treatments (for example to monitor blood sugar or other similar circumstances), if student is a caregiver, and no other means are available, or where otherwise required by law. Parents/guardians must contact Assistant Principal, Scott Herbert, 718-237-8902 ext. 3020. rscottherbert@schools.nyc.gov As the principal/designee, he may authorize use for an educational purpose. Exceptions will be processed and approved within 72 school day hours.

 

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY OR EXIGENT CIRCUMSTANCES:

Contacting students during school hours:

Parents / Guardians who need to make contact with their student at any point of the day please contact the students’ Advocate Counselor, The main office 718-237-8902 ext 5900, 2056, 2055, 2053 or one of the following:

 

Pupil Personnel Secretary: Vanessa 646-267-2416

Parent Coordinator: Tori Merius 646-251-5072

Attendance Teacher: Steve Castro 347-930-2790 

Principal Kittrell 917-680-5344

 

The full staff directory list can be found on the school’s website at www.mysbchs.org. Families should also make sure that their emergency contact information is up-to-date in their students' nyc schools account. 

Students access to making phone calls during school hours:

In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, students may access phones in the main office or with their advocate counselor to reach their parents or guardians. 

School Emergency Outreach during school hours:

In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, the school will use texts via Kinvolve, phone calls via school messenger blasts and emails to communicate information to parents and families. The school website will also be updated with pertinent information. Here is the site: www.mysbchs.org

 

Violation of NYS law regarding electronic devices:

Students who use electronic devices in violation of the NYCPS Discipline Code, the school's policy, Chancellor's Regulation A-413, and/or the NYCPS Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy ("IAUSP") will be subject to progressive discipline. This means that the disciplinary responses will escalate based on the nature and frequency of the violation. As provided in the State law, a student may not be suspended solely on the grounds that the student accessed a personal internet-enabled device in violation of school policy​.​ ​If a student is caught with their phone, the Administration will collect the phone and store it until the end of the day. There will also be a call home. Repeat violators will require a parent meeting. Repeated incidents of insubordination (i.e. refusal to surrender or store device) may result in a suspension if approved by the Office of Safety and Youth Development. 

 

Potential Actions for Cell Phone Violations

• Verbal Warning & Confiscation of Device 

• Notices to Families

• Parent Conferences

• Loss of School Privileges

• Repeated incidents of insubordination (i.e. refusal to surrender or store device) may result in a suspension 

 

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a focused and productive learning environment. If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding these policies, please do not hesitate to contact Scott Herbert, AP 718-237-8902 ext. 3020. rscottherbert@schools.nyc.gov