Distraction Free Schools at CPP
The Law and Implementation
This web page contains information on the New York State Distraction Free Schools Law and our implementation at CPP. See the FAQ below for information on the background of the law, links to the law and our new policy, implementation process, protocols for 2025-26, and a list resources and communications sent to families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the mandate from New York State and what does it mean for CPP?
A: Governor Hochul has passed a “Distraction-Free Schools” law (EdLaw 2803) that prohibits student use of internet- enabled devices from the time students enter the school for the day until the instructional day is over. This law is based on research that found the use of phones and social media to have negative impacts on students, and is intended to:
Improve focus and academic performance
Reduce digital distractions and screen dependency
Support students' mental health and social interaction
This is a NYS law, not a CPP initiative.
Q: What are the basic requirements of this law?
A: Prohibits the use of internet-enabled devices (smart watches, phones, airpods/headphones) during school hours; Applies to all K-12 public schools in NYS; includes lunches, study halls and hallway times; went in to effect on August 1, 2025.
Q: What was the process leading up to our specific CPP policy?
A: We sought community input via a survey in July. This included feedback from parents, families, caregivers, staff and students. The survey identified needs and concerns and gathered ideas on implementation. A copy of our Town Hall presentation in August can be viewed here. A Distraction Free Schools committee included administration, deans, teaching staff and PTA representation. A policy was created by this input to adhere to the law.
Q: What will happen to student devices during the school day at the middle and high schools?
A: Devices will be kept in a Yondr Pouch. The Yondr Pouch is a secure bag that is used to store an individual’s mobile device or devices. It is secured and unlocked with a special magnetic locking device. Every student grades 6 through 12 will be assigned a personal Yondr Pouch. While the Yondr Pouch is considered school property, it is each student’s responsibility to bring their pouch with them to school every day and keep it in good working condition.
Q: How will the Pouches be distributed?
A: Pouches will be distributed on the first day of school. Students will be shown how the process will work in terms of securing their device and releasing it at the end of the day.
Q: What is the daily process for students?
A: Upon entering the building, students will either power off their phone, AirPods, and smartwatch, silence them or switch them to airplane mode, and place all devices in the pouch, and lock it. They can store their pouch in their backpack or locker during the day, and unlock it at one of the unlocking stations on their way out. Students are responsible for bringing their pouch to and from school each day and for keeping it in good condition.
Q: What is a student loses or forgets their pouch?
A: If a student forgets or loses their pouch, their phone will be securely stored in the main office for the day.
Q: What if a student forgets to unlock the pouch before leaving the building?
There will be unlocking stations outside of the middle and high school buildings. Students will be shown these locations and families will also be made aware of their locations.
Q: How do I contact my child during the school day if needed?
Q: With student safety as our top priority, we will follow our standard safety protocols in the event of an emergency. If you need to reach your child during the school day, please follow one of the communication processes below:
Email your child on their @cppasd.com email address
Call the Middle School (607) 654-2966 or High School (607) 654-2988 offices to leave a message
Q: What are the protocols at the elementary level?
A: If an elementary student brings a cell phone or an internet enabled watch to school, it will be turned off and secured in their backpack in their locker for the entire school day. Student cell phone use is not permitted during school hours. Please refer to these letters (link coming) for reference.
Q: What if a student needs their personal device for a medical reason?
Students who have a documented medical condition and who need a personal device for monitoring their condition will be provided with an American With Disabilities Act (ADA compliant) Yondr pouch that has a velcro seal.
Q: What is the process for students who attend BOCES?
A: Students who attend BOCES classes will be able to unlock their devices when they leave the high school. They will be expected to follow the BOCES process while on a BOCES campus.
Q: What if a student needs to leave the building before regular dismissal?
A: Students will be able to unlock their devices just prior to leaving.
Q: What happens if there is an emergency at school?
A: All classrooms are equipped with phones with outside lines Student phones will remain secured, but adults will have unsecured phones. CPP will continue to work with our local law enforcement to ensure our communication plans and emergency policies are clear, practiced and up-to-date.
Q: How does the policy address enforcement and consequences?
A: Administrators will discuss the aims of this policy with students and their parents/families/caregivers, the benefits of a distraction free environment, the reasons the student had difficulty following this policy, and how the district can help the student contribute to a distraction free environment. For students out of compliance with this policy, consequences may include removal of device from student with storage in the main office, parent/family/caregiver retrieval, inschool suspension, lunch detention, after school suspension and in cases of insubordination, suspension under the district’s Code of Conduct. The district may also utilize assignments on the detrimental impact of social media on mental health, smartphones in school, or other relevant topics. Students will be reminded of this policy regularly and consistently, especially at the start of the school year and after returning from breaks.
Q: What if I have additional questions?
A: Please contact your child's school by phone or email.
Additional Resources and Communications:
Read our letter to families of 6th to 12th graders here
Read our letter to families of High School Learning Center students here
