Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy Effective

September 2025

PS 188 is committed to creating an engaging and distraction-free learning environment that supports student achievement, safety, and social-emotional development. In accordance with Chancellor’s Regulation A-413, the following policy outlines how electronic devices may be used and stored during the school day.

I. Scope & Definitions

• Electronic Devices include, but are not limited to:
  • Communication Devices: cell phones, smartphones, smartwatches
  • Computing Devices: tablets, laptops, iPads
  • Entertainment Devices: MP3 players, handheld gaming systems

II. General Policy

• Grades 3K–2: Students are not permitted to bring cell phones or personal electronic devices to school.
• Grades 3–5: Students may bring personal phones but must use Yondr pouches to secure them throughout the day.
• Students may only use DOE-issued or school-authorized devices during instruction for educational purposes.

III. Yondr Program Implementation (Grades 3–5)

To reduce phone distractions and promote social engagement, PS 188 has adopted the Yondr system.

Daily Procedures:

1. Students turn off their phones upon arrival
2. Phones are placed into their assigned Yondr pouch and locked in the presence of staff.
3. The pouch is stored in the student’s backpack and remains unopened during the school day.
4. At dismissal, pouches are unlocked, and phones are returned to student use.
5. Students must bring their Yondr pouch daily and are responsible for its care.

Late Arrival / Early Dismissal:

• Pouching and unpouching will occur in the Main Office.

IV Exceptions to the Device Policy( All Grades)

Students may be permitted to use a personal device if one of the following conditions applies:

• The student has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan that requires the use of an internet-enabled device and does not have access to a DOE-issued device.
• The student requires the device for medical monitoring or treatment (e.g., monitoring blood sugar levels).
• The student is a caregiver and needs the device for that responsibility.
• The device is needed for approved language support purposes (e.g., translation or interpretation services when no alternative is available).
• The device is required by law or for another approved educational purpose, as determined by the principal or designee.
• Requesting an Exception: Parents/guardians must contact the school to request an exception. Please call the main office at (718) 265-7580 or Ms. Vasquez, Parent Coordinator, at (646) 945-5064. All exception requests will be reviewed and processed within one week of receipt by the Assistant Principal responsible.

V. Storage & Emergency Contact

• Primary method for storage: Yondr pouches for Grades 3–5.
• The school maintains a direct emergency contact number for families: (718) 265-7580 or Ms. Vasquez, Parent Coordinator, 646-945-5064
• Devices are not permitted to be used during:
  • Exams and assessments
  • Fire drills/emergency preparedness
  • Locker room or bathroom visits

VI. Violations & Consequences

Infraction	Response
Phone Use During School	Phone/pouch collected; parent contacted for pickup
Pouch Damage or Misuse	Replacement required; phone held until parent conference
Forgotten Pouch	Phone held for the day; parent reminder call; repeat offenses = “lost”

 

Repeated infractions may result in progressive disciplinary measures as per the DOE Discipline Code

• Parents will receive this policy at the start of each school year and upon enrollment.
• The full policy is posted on the PS 188 school website.
• Changes will be shared in writing with staff, students, and families.

VII.Emergency Communications

• In the event of an emergency or other exigent circumstances:
  • Parents/guardians may contact the school directly at (718) 265-7580 or reach out to Ms. Vasquez, Parent Coordinator, at (646) 945-5064 to communicate with their child.
• Students may access a phone in a designated location to contact their parents or guardians, as needed. The school will use the GAMA system to share timely updates and information with parents and guardians.

VIII. Stolen and Loss

● 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.