Important Updates: Internet-Enabled Device Policy and Free Meals Program

Dear Pleasantville Families, 

As we prepare to welcome students back in September, I want to share two important updates for the upcoming school year. 

First, as many of you know, New York State recently passed a new law called the Distraction-Free Schools Act. This law prohibits student use of internet-enabled cell phones and other personal devices during the entire school day while students are on campus. The goal is to reduce distractions and create a better learning environment for all students. 

In response, Pleasantville has adopted Policy #7316, which follows the state’s guidance. Under this policy, students will be required to store their phones and other internet-enabled devices (such as smartwatches) in their lockers or backpacks during school hours, unless a teacher specifically says they can be used for a class activity or other approved exceptions detailed in the policy.  

We know that changes like this bring up important questions and concerns. Before the adoption of the policy, I met with our leadership teams and small groups of parents, students, and staff across the district to talk through what this means and how it will work. These conversations will continue. Please feel free to contact your building principal if you have questions or ideas, and I encourage you to review the Q&A section below. 

This will be a learning year for all of us. Through lived experience and community input, we expect new policies and procedures to evolve to best meet the needs of our students and staff—while continuing to comply with the law. 

Second, beginning this fall, all Pleasantville students will be entitled to receive free school meals each day as part of a new, fully funded statewide initiative – Universal Schools Meals. This change supports ongoing efforts to make sure every student has access to the resources they need to thrive. Additional details, such as what’s included and how this works alongside available snacks or à la carte items, can also be found in the Q&A section below. Also, attached are breakfast and lunch menus for the start of the school year in each building. 

Together, we’ll navigate these changes as a community and keep our focus on what matters most: creating a positive, focused, and supportive learning environment for every student.

POLICY #7316: USE OF INTERNET-ENABLED DEVICES DURING THE SCHOOL DAY 

NOTE: This Q&A document will continue to be updated as additional questions arise. Aug. 14, 2025 

Q: What kinds of devices are included in this policy?
A: The policy applies to personal internet-enabled personal devices such as smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and laptops. These devices may not be used during the school day unless the device is approved for educational use or needed for a documented accommodation. Devices such as “flip phones” that can call or text but do not allow internet access are allowed. 

Q: Will phones be collected at the start of the day?
A: No. Students will be responsible for storing their own devices in their backpacks or lockers. 

Q: Are there any exceptions to this rule?
A: Yes. School-issued devices are not included under this policy. Additionally, teachers may allow students to use their personal devices for approved class activities and, if so, will communicate that specifically. In addition, a student with medical or special education needs may be permitted to use devices as outlined in their IEP or 504 Plan. 

Q: What if I want to be able to reach my child during the day?
A: We understand the desire to stay in touch with your child and that sometimes information is time-sensitive. If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call the main office. Similarly, if your child needs to contact you, they will be allowed to use a school phone.
 
Q: How will the school communicate about and enforce this policy?
A: At the start of the year, the policy and expectations of students will be explained in each school. The administrative team has developed common language on this policy for consistency across the district and that will be reinforced regularly. If a student repeatedly breaks the rules, any consequences will be based on our Student Code of Conduct. 

Q: Will this policy apply during lunch or recess?
A: Yes. State law prohibits student use for the entire school day, which includes lunch, recess, and passing time between classes. 

Q: Can students use their devices after school while still on campus?
A: Yes. Once the regular, academic school day ends, students are free to use personal devices. 

Q: How has the policy been communicated to parents, caregivers and students?
A: Superintendent Lutinski has met with several stakeholder groups to discuss this policy including the Board of Education, the administration, faculty and staff, members of the PTAs, and student representatives from each building. These conversations will continue in order to incorporate feedback that will reflect both the needs of our students and families and compliance with the law. 

The policy was discussed at the Board of Education meeting on July 29 and was revisited and adopted at the Board of Education meeting on August 5, 2025. A Parent Square notification was sent from the Superintendent to all parents and caregivers on August 14, 2025, and the policy can be found here on the district website. 

FREE SCHOOL MEALS 

Q: Why are meals free this year?
A: Pleasantville is participating in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs for the 2025–26 school year. This makes all enrolled students eligible for New York State’s Universal School Meals Program, which was introduced by Governor Hochul in May of 2025 and provides one breakfast and lunch meal per student each school day at no cost.