Dear LMC Families,
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.
COLLECTION POLICY
Upon arrival at homeroom classes @8:15am, students must power off their devices.
Students will place their devices in a Yondr pouch and secure it in front of school staff. Students will store their locked pouches in their backpacks for the day.
At the end of the school day @2:32pm or later for those enrolled in after school activities in the building, students will unlock their pouches at their assigned locker areas and remove their devices.
Students with approved early dismissal will be able to unlock their pouch in the main office. Students who were late can collect their assigned pouch from the main office.
Students who had their devices confiscated will need to pick them up from the main office.
If your pouch is lost or stolen you will need to pay a nominal fee for a replacement.
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, parents or guardians can call the main office at 646-826-8100 to reach their child.
In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, students may access phones in the main office to reach their parents or guardians.
In case of emergency or exigent circumstances, the school will use (GAMA/DOE Messenger) to communicate information to parents or guardians.
Here is how parents/guardians can access the automated messaging system: (directions for setting up NYCSA account)
EXCEPTIONS
Students are allowed to use their device if they have an individualized education program (IEP) or 504 Plan that includes use of an internet-enabled device and do not have a DOE-issued device for such purpose.
Parents/guardians must contact Seth Kritzman, the 504 coordinator at skritzman@schools.nyc.gov 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, for approved language purposes (such as translation or interpretation services if no other means are available), or where otherwise required by law.
The principal/designee may authorize use for an educational purpose.
Exceptions will be processed and approved within 5 business days of the request.
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.
OTHER: If lost or stolen
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.
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We are committed to a smooth transition. We will support our students and families, focusing on teaching responsibility and maximizing learning time. We believe this policy will profoundly impact our students’ learning, social development, and overall well-being. We appreciate your partnership in creating a focused and enriching educational experience. Once again, in case of emergency or exigent circumstances, parents or guardians can call the main office at 646-826-8100 to reach their child.