Cell Phone Policy

In accordance with New York State Education Law §2803 and Chancellor’s Regulation A-413, Middle School 136 is committed to fostering a safe, distraction-free learning environment that supports academic success and the social-emotional well-being of all students. To minimize distractions, maintain focus, and build meaningful interpersonal relationships during the school day, the use of personal, internet-enabled electronic devices is prohibited during instructional hours and throughout school grounds unless otherwise specified.

School Day: The period from 8:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m., including all instructional periods, transitions, lunch, recess, and dismissal. It also includes after-school programming from 2:50 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., such as clubs, tutoring, or other DOE- or school-sponsored activities.

Internet-Enabled Electronic Device:

Any device capable of connecting to the internet or wireless communication networks. Any personal device capable of accessing the internet or wireless communication networks, including:

• Smartphones
• Smartwatches (e.g., Apple Watch, Galaxy Watch)
• Tablets and iPads
• Laptops and Chromebooks
• Handheld gaming devices (e.g., Nintendo Switch)
• Any other smart or Bluetooth-enabled devices not issued by the DOE

School Grounds:

All indoor and outdoor areas of the school building, including:

• Classrooms
• Hallways and stairwells
• Bathrooms/restrooms
• Cafeteria
• Gymnasium
• School Yard-Outdoor recreational/play areas
• Auditorium and multipurpose rooms

Students may not use personal internet-enabled electronic devices during the school day in any of the following areas or situations:

• Classrooms (including during independent work or transitions)
• Hallways and stairwells
• Bathrooms/restrooms
• Cafeteria
• Gym or outdoor areas during lunch, recess, or physical education
• During transitions between classes or periods
• After-school clubs and DOE-sponsored programming

All personal devices must be powered off and secured in a Yondr pouch immediately upon entering the building. Middle School 136 will provide a Yondr pouch to each student.

Families may contact students during the school day by calling the school’s main office:

(718) 840-1960 Extension: 1061, 1062, or 1063

Alternatively, families may reach out to their child’s guidance counselor for support or urgent matters. Students needing to contact their parent/guardian during the day due to an emergency or exigent circumstance must request permission from a staff member. The student will be escorted to the Main Office or the Guidance Suite to use a designated school phone.

In case of a school-wide emergency, families will receive updates via the NYC DOE’s GAMA (Grades, Attendance, and Messaging Application) system.

• Families are encouraged to set up their NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) to receive these notifications.
• Instructions to create or access a NYCSA account are available here: https://www.schoolsaccount.nyc/ or by contacting our Parent Coordinator Ms. Martha Duran at (718) 840-1950 ext: 1084.

The use of a personal internet-enabled electronic device may be permitted under the following approved circumstances:

• Medical Necessity: Use of a personal device for medical monitoring must be documented by a licensed healthcare provider and approved by the Office of School Health.
• Legal Requirements: If required by a legal order or court mandate.

• IEP or 504 Plan: If the student’s IEP or 504 Plan explicitly states that a personal device is required for learning, and no DOE-issued device is available for use.

To request an exception, families must contact the Principal or Assistant Principals in writing. Requests will be reviewed within 5 school days of receipt. Supporting documentation (such as a medical note or IEP) must be submitted at the time of the request.

If a student’s personal device is reported lost or stolen on school property:

1. The student must notify a teacher, Guidance Counselor, Dean, or administrator immediately.
2. A staff member will help the student file a written report.
3. The school will investigate and notify the family of any developments.
4. Middle School 136 is not responsible for the loss or damage of any personal electronic devices.

We strongly recommend families encourage students not to bring valuable items to school, as personal property is brought at one’s own risk. 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.

Violations of this policy will result in the following:

• First Violation: Confiscation of the device for the remainder of the school day. The student may retrieve it at dismissal.
• Second Violation: Parent notification and possible parent/guardian conference.
• Repeated Violations: Progressive disciplinary measures in accordance with the NYC DOE Citywide Behavioral Expectations to Support Student Learning (Discipline Code).

All disciplinary actions will be carried out with equity and a focus on restorative practices whenever possible.

This policy is intended to:

• Support student focus, academic achievement, and social-emotional learning
• Promote in-person communication, teamwork, and relationship-building
• Prevent distractions and the misuse of technology during the instructional day
• Ensure clear communication and safety procedures for emergencies

Thank you for partnering with us to ensure a safe, focused, and respectful learning environment for all students at Middle School 136. Thank you for your continued support and partnership.