Cell Phones (and other personal electronic devices)

In today's digital age, cell phones have become an integral part of our daily lives. However, to ensure a focused and conducive learning environment, we have implemented a cell phone policy at YECA. Our policy aims to strike a balance between allowing students to have access to their devices while also minimizing distractions in the classroom. Please reference Chancellor’s Regulation A-411 for further information.

Cell phones and other electronic devices MAY NOT be used to photograph, record (neither picture, sound, nor both) any student or staff member on school premises at any time.

YECA Campus (Grades 6-10)

* Refers to all scholars following the Middle School & High School sequence and taking classes at the Richard Grossley I.S. 8 Campus.

Grades 6-10 and
Students in grades 11 and 12 who do not meet the academic requirements to participate in the college program.

College Campus (Grades 11-12)

* Refers to all scholars participating in the dual enrollment program on the York College Campus, (typically Grades 11-12).

Cell phones and other personal electronic devices including airpods, earbuds, and headphones MAY NOT be turned on or used during instructional time, hallway passing and while waiting to use the bathroom, except for instructional and educational purposes with the explicit approval of the teacher.

Cell phones and other personal electronic devices including airpods, earbuds, and headphones MAY be used during the following non-instructional times of the school day: during arrival in the auditorium and student’s lunch period only in the student cafeteria.

To support our MIDDLE SCHOOL SCHOLARS with cell phone regulation, at the beginning of each class, all 6th and 7th grade scholars will be instructed to:

Put their phones and other personal electronic devices including airpods, earbuds, and headphones on silent and in their backpacks
Take out the materials needed for the class period
Place their backpacks in front of the classroom.

Please note, scholars will not be allowed to access their backpacks for the duration of their class period(s). Families may call the main office in case of an emergency.

As high school students participating in college courses on the York College CUNY campus, it is essential to demonstrate academic discipline and present yourselves as aspiring adults who understand the importance of self-discipline.To support a focused and professional learning environment, the following cell phone policy will be in effect:

Classroom Use: Cell phones and other personal electronic devices including airpods, earbuds, and headphones MUST be silenced and put away during all classes, labs, and instructional sessions. Texting, social media use, and calls during these times are strictly prohibited.
Academic Use: If a cell phone is needed for academic purposes (e.g., accessing course materials or participating in polls), it may be used with the instructor’s explicit permission.
Common Areas: In common areas, such as hallways or lounges, students may use their phones discreetly, ensuring they do not disrupt others or cause distractions.
Emergency Situations: Students can use their cell phones to contact family members or authorities in an emergency. However, this should be done in a way that minimally disrupts the learning environment.
Consequences for Non-Compliance:

First Offense: The student will receive a warning, and parents will be notified of the infraction.
Second Offense: The student must meet with CCT and school administration, and their parents will be contacted to discuss maintaining academic discipline.
Third Offense: The student may face further disciplinary actions, including potential removal from the college course program.