In accordance with New York State Education Law §2803 and the statewide initiative to create distraction-free school environments, our district has adopted HF-L Policy 7316, which goes into effect at the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year.
To align with this mandate, and to help minimize distractions and support student well-being, our district is implementing a new policy on personal internet-enabled devices — including smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets.
What’s Changing?
Students will not be allowed to use personal internet-enabled devices during the school day — this includes phones, smartwatches, and tablets. This applies during both class time and non-instructional periods like lunch, recess, study hall, and passing time.
All personal devices must be turned off and stored in a locker, cubby, or backpack throughout the school day.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes. A student may be allowed to use a device:
· For a specific educational purpose approved by a teacher or administrator
· For medical reasons, with documentation from a licensed provider
· In an emergency
· To support language translation
· As part of an IEP or 504 Plan
· On a case-by-case basis for caregiving responsibilities (with documentation)
· Requests for exceptions should be submitted to the Director of Pupil Personnel Services (PPS). Families will be notified of decisions, and staff will be informed of approved exceptions.
Need to Reach Your Child During the Day?
To ensure communication while minimizing disruptions, families can:
· Call the main office
· Drop off a note
· Message your child’s teacher through ParentSquare
· Email your child (grades 7–12 only) using their school-issued email
Further building-level FAQs will be shared by principals in the coming days, as implementation may look slightly different at each level.
We appreciate your support as we work to create a focused and healthy school environment. If you have questions, please reach out to your child’s principal or the PPS Office.
For more information, please visit: https://www.hflcsd.org/page/distraction-free-school-day.