As part of our ongoing commitment to creating learning environments that empower our students and support their growth, Middletown Public Schools and its Board of Education have revised Policy #5132.82 Use of Privately Owned Technological Devices by Students, which is being implemented from the start of the 2024-2025 school year. This revised version is grounded in the latest research on brain development and is designed to help our students thrive academically.
The fully revised policy can be accessed through our policy website (here) and directly through the hyperlink above.
In the meantime, please take note of the following key points:
Enhanced Focus on Learning: Research has shown that reducing children’s and teen’s use of cellular devices is crucial for brain development. To support this, the use of privately owned cell phones and wearable technology will be restricted during school hours, except as outlined in an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 plan.
Magnetic Pouches for Middle and High School Students:
Beman Middle School and Middletown High School: In late fall, students will be required to secure their cellphones and wearable technology in school-issued magnetic pouches upon entering the building. These devices will remain locked throughout the school day and can only be accessed at dismissal. This approach ensures that students remain focused on their studies without unnecessary distractions.
Prior to late fall, Beman and MHS students may bring cellphones and wearable technology to school, but these devices must remain turned off and out of view (e.g., in backpacks) throughout the entire school day.
Elementary Schools: Elementary students may bring cellphones to school, but these devices must remain turned off and out of view (e.g., in backpacks) throughout the entire school day.
Limited Use with Educational Purpose: In certain cases, and only with prior approval from school administration, teachers may request the use of cellphones for specific lessons. This exception ensures that technology is used purposefully to enhance learning without creating distractions.
Prohibited Uses and Consequences:
Students are not allowed to use personal devices on school grounds during school hours, including but not limited to in bathrooms, hallways, cafeterias, or in ways that violate school rules, including cyberbullying or unauthorized recording.
Misuse of personal or Board Technology Resources will result in disciplinary action, which may include the loss of device privileges, suspension, or other appropriate measures.
Personal Device Responsibility: While students are permitted to bring personal devices to school, they are responsible for their safekeeping. The District is not liable for any lost, stolen, or damaged devices.
Educational Focus: Our District is committed to providing all necessary technological resources to support a 21st-century learning environment. We encourage students to engage with these resources responsibly to maximize their educational experience.
We understand that this revised policy may represent a change in how personal technology is managed during the school day. Nonetheless, we are confident that these changes will greatly benefit our students’ focus, academic performance, and overall well-being.
If you have any questions or need further clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s school principal. We greatly appreciate your continued support and partnership in creating the best possible learning environment for our students.