July 28, 2025

Dear MACS Family and Community,

I hope this letter finds you and your family well and enjoying a restful summer. As we prepare for the upcoming school year, I want to share an important update regarding a new district-wide policy on the use of internet-enabled devices during the school day, in accordance with New York State Education Law §2803.

New Policy: Use of Internet-Enabled Devices During the School Day

Beginning this school year, students in grades 5 through 12 will be required to store their personal internet-enabled devices—such as smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets—in Yondr pouches during the instructional day. These pouches will be distributed at the start of the school year, and building principals will provide detailed logistics and expectations prior to the first day of school.

Students in PreK through Grade 4 who bring phones to school must keep them off and stored in their backpacks throughout the school day.

This policy, formally adopted as Policy #7316, was developed in collaboration with parents, students, teachers, and staff. It reflects our shared commitment to creating a focused, engaging, and distraction-free learning environment for all students.

Why This Policy Matters

Research and experience have shown that excessive use of internet-enabled devices during the school day can significantly interfere with students’ ability to focus, engage in meaningful learning, and build healthy interpersonal relationships. Social media, messaging apps, and constant notifications can lead to:

• Reduced academic performance
• Increased anxiety and social comparison
• Disrupted sleep patterns
• Decreased face-to-face communication skills

By limiting access to these devices during the school day, we aim to help students:

• Stay present and engaged in instruction
• Develop self-regulation and digital balance
• Build stronger peer connections
• Improve academic outcomes

This is not just about compliance with state law—it’s about doing what is best for our scholars.

Communication During the School Day

We understand that parents may need to contact their children during the school day. The following methods will be available:

• Call the school’s main office to leave a message or request a call back.
• In emergencies, office staff can reach students directly via classroom phone systems.
• Drop off written notes at the main office for delivery to your child.

These procedures ensure that communication remains open while preserving the integrity of our learning environment.

Partnering for Student Success

We recognize that this change may require adjustment, and we are committed to working closely with families to support a smooth transition. Our goal is to partner with you to help students thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally.

We appreciate your support and collaboration as we implement this important policy. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s principal or our district office.

Together, we can ensure that our schools remain safe, focused, and student-centered.

Warm regards,
Donna Runner, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

READ THE NEW POLICY VIA THIS LINK

References

[1] N.Y. Education Law Section 2803 – Use of internet-enabled devices ...