HILLTOWNS — The Berne-Knox-Westerlo School District has released its bell-to-bell smartphone-ban policy that will require students to keep their devices in their lockers or other designated storage areas during the entirety of the school day, with limited exceptions.

The plan is a requirement by New York state, which claims that smartphone use in schools distracts students and impairs creativity, and can contribute to social isolation. The deadline for districts to submit the plan was Aug. 1. 

While the state has offered funding to districts for smart-phone storage devices, like Yondr pouches that can only be opened with a special tool, BKW has opted to keep things simple by sticking with students’ lockers and storage bins in classrooms or the district’s main office. 

In addition to smartphones, the policy bans other internet-capable devices like tablets and smartwatches. Besides those provided by the school for learning purposes, these devices are banned during both instructional and non-instructional (e.g. lunch and study hall) school hours. 

Exceptions are made for emergency situations, as well as for students who need their devices for health management, translation, or special-education services, or who are considered student-caregivers, meaning they’re responsible for the well-being of a family member. 

The policy advises parents that they can reach their children at school either by calling the district phone or dropping off written notes at the main office. 

While the policy will be enforced through the student code of conduct, students cannot be suspended solely for those violations, the policy notes. 

“We recognize that this change may feel significant for many students, and we are fully committed to supporting them through the transition,” Superintendent Bonnie Kane wrote in a statement on the district website. “The policy will be reviewed with students during the first week of school to ensure clarity and understanding. If you or your child have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your building principal.