Device Policy
PS 295 Cell Phone and Electronic Device Policy
Purpose: To create an environment conducive to learning by minimizing distractions caused by cell phones and other personal internet-enabled electronic devices, ensure the safety and focus of all students during school the school day, and follow Education Law §2803, effective August 1, 2025, all New York State schools are required to adopt a policy that prohibits the use of personal internet-enabled devices during the school day on school grounds. An "internet-enabled electronic device" is defined as an electronic device capable of connecting to the internet and enabling the user to access content on the internet. Examples of such devices include cell phones, smartphones, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, iPads, and portable music and entertainment systems.
Policy Statement: PS 295’s policy was developed in consultation with the school’s SLT and/or FTA to be in alignment with NYC Public Schools’ commitment to safe and distraction-free learning environments, students will not be permitted to use or access their personal internet-enabled electronic devices upon arrival at school until the end of the school day. The school day at PS 295 starts at 8:20 AM and ends at 2:40 PM. At no point during the school day which includes: lunch, recess, transitions between periods, assessments, field trips, and emergency drills, may these devices be used or turned on.Students will be able to use school/NYCPS-issued devices during the school day.
Collection and Storage: Upon arrival, students must power off their devices. Students must store their powered-off devices in their backpacks from entry until dismissal.
Emergency Communication: In case of emergency, parents or guardians may contact the school at (718) 965-0390. The designated contact for emergencies is Parent Coordinator Evelyn Marrero (EMarrero11@schools.nyc.gov).
If a student needs to contact a family member during the school day, they should inform their teacher, who will contact the Parent Coordinator to assist the student in using the school phone. In emergency situations, PS 295 will communicate with families through DOE Messaging (Eblast) and ParentSquare. Families can access these systems by creating or updating their NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) at www.schoolsaccount.nyc.
Exceptions: Use of devices is also prohibited unless required as part of a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Accommodation Plan. Families requesting an exception must contact Assistant Principal Jeannette Echeverri at JEcheverri2@schools.nyc.gov. Requests will be reviewed within 24–48 hours.
Discipline: 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. 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.
In the event of a policy violation, teachers will provide a verbal reminder and direct the student to turn off the device and return it to their backpack. If the behavior continues or the student does not comply, the matter will be referred to the principal, assistant principal, or a designee. Should a device need to be confiscated, the school will notify the family, and the device must be retrieved by a parent or guardian in person.
Responsibility for Personal Electronic Devices: Families should be aware that PS 295 is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal devices. All items brought to school are the sole responsibility of the student.
In the unlikely event that an electronic device is stolen or damaged at school, parents can submit a claim to the Comptroller’s Office. More information on submitting a claim is available on the Comptroller’s webpage.
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 our Parent Coordinator, Evelyn Marrero, at EMarrero11@schools.nyc.gov or Assistant Principal, Jeannette Echeverri, JEcheverri2@schools.nyc.gov
