Ithaca City School District

The District Download

A new state law has gone into effect: students will not be allowed to use personal internet-enabled devices—like cell phones and smartwatches—at any point during the school day, from the first bell to the last. This email series breaks down what that means, how the ICSD is supporting students, and how families can help make the transition a positive one.

Creating Space for Learning and Connection

This fall, the Ithaca City School District will begin implementing a new cell phone and internet-enabled device policy, in alignment with New York State education law.

Our focus is clear: we want to build stronger in-school connections and create learning environments where students are fully present with their teachers, peers, and learning.

Elementary Schools (Grades K-5)

Students may bring phones or personal devices to school, but they must stay off and in their backpacks for the entire day.

➡️ We encourage families to consider whether elementary students need to bring devices at all.

Northeast students playing

Secondary Schools (Grades 6-12)

All students will receive a signal-blocking pouch, assigned along with their Chromebook.

Each morning, students should:

  • Place their device in the pouch

  • Seal the pouch shut

  • Keep the pouch with them all day

  • Devices remain with students, but can’t be used or accessed during the school day

Important: Students keep possession of their phones.

Boynton students walking out of the building

Exemptions and Special Circumstances

Students may be exempt from this policy when they have:

  • Medical needs requiring device monitoring or access

  • Educational accommodations specified in their IEP or 504 plan

  • Other documented needs, as determined by school administration

We’re committed to rolling this policy out with care. The policy is not about banning technology—it’s about making intentional space in the school day for students to focus, connect, and thrive.

We expect to make adjustments as we go. The policy will be revisited regularly, with check-ins scheduled for board meetings starting in October.

🎥 Want to learn more?

Watch the Board's August 5 policy committee work session to hear the most recent discussion about implementation (discussion begins at the 2:55 mark).

💬 Conversations You Can Start at Home

  • Are there any downsides to technology use that you've noticed or heard about?

  • How do you feel after spending time on social media?

  • What are some fun things the family can do that don't involve screens?

  • What does it mean to be a good digital citizen, and how can the family practice that?

We invite families to share insights from these conversations through our Let's Talk portal, and we'll highlight reflections in coming newsletters.

🔁 What Happens If a Student Uses a Device?

We anticipate using a simple, consistent approach to guide staff and support students.

Students will be guided by:

  • A respectful reminder of expectations

  • A plan for putting the device away

  • Involving school leadership and caregivers if the disruption continues

This is not about punishment—it's about helping students be present and successful.

Students entering a school building

📲 How to Stay Connected During the Day

  • If you need to contact your student during the school day, please call the main office of their school

  • To ensure you receive important updates from the district and your child’s school, verify that your contact information in SchoolTool is accurate and that you’re set up to receive messages

  • Download the ICSD app from the App Store or Google Play

  • If your child rides the bus, download Stopfinder, an app that allows caregivers to track their child’s school bus in real time

Person in the crowd recording a video on her phone

📆 Key Dates

Board Voting Meeting
August 12 | 6 p.m.

Board Voting Meeting
August 26 | 6 p.m.

Policy Work Session
September 2 | 5 p.m.

First Days of School
September 3 and 4

For FAQs, additional information, and the latest updates, please visit our website. We’re continuously adding new details, so check back regularly!