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In Compliance with NYS Law: Updated Student Device Policy

Posted Date: 8/05/25 (1:06 PM)
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Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students,
I hope this message finds you well and that you’re enjoying the final weeks of summer with family and friends.
I am writing to inform you of an important update regarding our electronic device/cell phone policy at Mattituck-Cutchogue Junior-Senior High School. This change comes in response to new legislation from New York State aimed at reducing distractions and improving the academic environment in schools across the state.
As provided back in June a New Policy: Bell-to-Bell Ban on Internet-Enabled Devices adopted by NY State.
Beginning this fall, our school will implement a “Bell-to-Bell” ban on all internet-enabled devices during the instructional day. This includes smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, AirPods, and any other personal devices capable of connecting to the internet that are not provided by the district.
Research strongly supports that limiting the use of such devices during school hours improves student attention, academic performance, peer interactions, and overall well-being. This policy aligns with the recently adopted New York State student cell phone ban and supports our ongoing mission to create a more focused, respectful, and engaging learning environment.
For more information on the state-wide initiative, please visit the Governor of New York’s official website and look for the announcement titled “Distraction-Free Schools.”
Policy Details
  • Grades 7–12 students will be expected to store their smartphones, smartwatches, and AirPods in their lockers at the start of the school day and keep them stored until dismissal.
  • Locker assignments and combinations will be available through the Student/Parent Portal before the first day of school.
  • Devices may not be accessed or used at any time during the school day—including in school lunch, study hall, and hallway transitions.
  • At dismissal, students may retrieve their devices.
  • Should a student need to contact a parent or guardian during the day, school phones will be available in the Nurse’s Office and Guidance Office.
  • In an emergency you may reach out to the Guidance Office directly.  631-284-8471 ext 1405 / 1407 / 1102
  • Email regarding attendance concerns mhsattendance@mufsd.com 
For any additional questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to: Administration
  Mr. Burke – (631) 298-8471, ext. 1102   Ms. Stewart – (631) 298-8471, ext. 1407
Support and Accountability
We ask for your partnership in reviewing this policy with your child before the start of the school year. The policy will also be discussed with students upon their return.
Failure to follow the policy may result in disciplinary action, consistent with our school’s Code of Conduct.
We are confident that this change will have a positive impact on our school culture and student achievement. Your cooperation and support are greatly appreciated as we work together to ensure a productive and distraction-free learning environment.
Further communication and reminders about this policy will be shared later this month.
Thank you again for your continued support.
Warm regards,
Patrick K. Burke
Principal
Mattituck-Cutchogue Jr.-Sr. High School