Forte Prep Academy Distraction‑Free Device Policy

 
 

Effective August 2025

1. Purpose & Scope

Since our inception, Forte Prep Academy has maintained a no screens policy across all campuses, rooted in our belief that students learn, connect, and thrive best without the constant presence of personal electronic devices.

This policy formalizes our existing practice and ensures compliance with the New York State Distraction-Free Schools initiative. Our goal is a safe, focused, and mentally healthy learning environment, free from digital distractions during the entire school day—from arrival to dismissal.

2. Definitions

  • Internet-Enabled Devices: Personal smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, or any device with internet or communication capabilities.

  • School Day: All instructional and non-instructional periods, including homeroom, classes, lunch, passing time, assemblies, etc.

  • School Grounds: All school-controlled buildings, outdoor spaces, or property.

3. Device Storage & Implementation at Forte Prep

  • Middle School:

    • All students must store personal internet-enabled devices in individual cubbies upon arrival.

    • Devices remain secured and may only be retrieved at dismissal.

    • Students may not carry devices in pockets, bags, or clothing during the day.

  • High School:

    • All personal devices are stored in Yondr pouches at arrival.

    • Yondr pouches are secure, lockable pouches into which students place their devices. Once sealed, students keep the pouch with them, but it remains locked and cannot be opened without a special unlocking base stationed at designated locations in the building.

    • Devices stay locked for the entire school day unless an authorized staff member unlocks the pouch for an approved purpose.

    • The Yondr system allows students to maintain possession of their property while ensuring devices remain inaccessible and unused during learning time.

4. Permitted Exceptions

Device use is allowed only when:

  • Required for academic instruction or specific school-related tasks and authorized directly by Chief Schools Officer

  • Necessary to manage medical conditions (e.g., diabetes management, medical alerts)

  • Required under an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or Section 504 Plan

  • Needed for emergencies (e.g. evacuations, compromised building safety where appropriate), translation services, or caregiving responsibilities

  • Explicitly authorized by a Forte Prep staff member

5. Emergency & Parent Communication

  • Parents and guardians may contact students during school hours via the school’s main office or approved school communication platforms.

  • Students may contact families through school channels if urgent communication is necessary.

6. Development & Transparency

  • Forte Prep developed and regularly reviews this policy in consultation with staff, families, and students.

  • The full policy is published online and is available in the community’s primary languages.

7. Discipline & Reporting

  • Non-compliance with this policy will result in progressive, restorative discipline rather than automatic suspension. Students currently receive a level two deduction/demerit for violating our technology policy. 

  • Suspension is not permitted solely for device policy violations.

  • Starting September 1, 2026, Forte Prep will publish annual reports summarizing:

    • The number and types of device-related incidents (using non-identifiable data)

    • Any disparities in enforcement by demographic group, along with plans to address those disparities

8. Implementation Timeline

  • This policy remains in effect for the 2025–26 school year and beyond.

  • By August 1, 2025, all device management systems (including cubbies and Yondr pouches) will be fully in place and procedures communicated to families and staff.

9. Community Engagement & Support

  • Forte Prep will continue holding forums and distributing updates to ensure families understand the policy and its benefits.

  • Training sessions for staff, families, and students will reinforce proper use of device storage systems and clarify the policy’s purpose in promoting mental health and academic engagement.

10. Monitoring & Evaluation

  • Data and stakeholder feedback will inform any policy updates to ensure the approach remains equitable, effective, and in line with student needs.

Rationale & Benefits

  • Minimizes classroom distractions and supports deeper learning

  • Protects students’ mental health and social well-being

  • Reduces exposure to cyberbullying and social media pressures

  • Ensures safe, equitable school culture by applying consistent expectations

  • Aligns with New York State’s Distraction-Free Schools initiative