Updated Electronic Device Policy: Grades 7-12

Dear West Essex Families,

As a follow-up to the July 7, 2026 communication regarding changes to student cell phone procedures, we are sharing an important update regarding the requirements that will be in effect for the 2026-2027 school year.

At its August 19 meeting, the Board of Education adopted revised Policy and Regulation 5516 regarding student use of personal electronic communication devices. The revised policy aligns district procedures with New Jersey's required "bell-to-bell" restrictions for students in grades K-12. 

What does "bell-to-bell" mean?

Bell-to-bell means the entire school day, from the opening bell through the dismissal bell, including passing periods, study halls, and lunch. During this time, students in grades 7-12 are prohibited from using personal internet-enabled and non internet-enabled devices. This includes devices such as cell phones, smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, smart glasses, basic/flip phones, and other personal communication devices. Students may continue to use their school issued Chromebooks for educational purposes as directed by school staff. 

An exception applies to seniors who participate in the High School's open-campus lunch program. Seniors who leave campus for lunch in accordance with the school's open-campus procedures are permitted to use their personal devices while they are off school grounds during their approved open-campus lunch period. Upon returning to campus, devices must again be turned off and stored in accordance with school procedures. 

Key Points for Students & Families

• Grades 7-8: This is largely consistent with current procedures for our middle school students. Personal devices brought to school must be turned off and stored in a backpack, locker, or other bag throughout the entire school day.
• Grades 9-12: This represents a change for our high school students. Personal devices may no longer be used during passing periods, study periods, or lunch. Devices must remain off and stored throughout the school day. High school students will also follow teacher-managed device storage procedures during class periods.
• Before/after school and buses: Students may use personal devices on the school bus while traveling to and from school and on school grounds before the regular school day begins and after it ends.
• School-sponsored activities: Device use may be permitted at certain school-sponsored events off school grounds during the school day with appropriate authorization, as well as at school-sponsored activities held outside the regular school day.
• Accommodations: Exceptions are available for qualifying needs, including IEPs, 504 Plans, documented health needs, translation services, certain caregiver responsibilities, emergencies, and other circumstances permitted under the policy. Parents/guardians seeking an accommodation for their child should submit a written request, along with any appropriate supporting documentation, to their child's building principal.

West Essex High School (Grades 9-12)
Dr. Kimberly Westervelt, Building Principal
kwestervelt@westex.org 

West Essex Middle School (Grades 7-8)
Ms. Alicia Angione, Building Principal
aangione@westex.org 

• Policy violations: The regulation establishes progressive disciplinary measures for violations involving prohibited personal devices. Consequences increase for repeated offenses and may include confiscation of the device, parent/guardian pickup, detention, suspension, social probation, and other appropriate disciplinary measures. Families who need to communicate with their child during the school day should contact the school's main office. School staff will ensure that information is provided to the student in a timely and appropriate manner.

Questions regarding the State's updated guidelines may be directed to the New Jersey Department of Education at PhoneFreeSchools@doe.nj.gov.  

We recognize that these changes, particularly at the high school level, will require an adjustment for some students. Our goal is to implement the policy consistently while maintaining a school environment focused on learning and student success.

Building principals will review school-specific procedures and expectations with students during grade-level assemblies held during the opening days of school. We appreciate your partnership and support as we implement these requirements for the 2026-2027 school year.

Sincerely,
Damion Macioci
Superintendent of Schools

Policy 5516 - Student Use of Internet Enabled Devices