In accordance with the state’s Distraction-Free Schools Law, the Fayetteville-Manlius Central School District is prepared to implement a “bell-to-bell” ban on all personal internet-enabled devices for students during school hours beginning Sept. 2.
District officials crafted the policy in accordance with state law, while using vital feedback gathered during the 2024-25 school year from community surveys as well as various stakeholder groups, including staff, students and families. The Board of Education approved Policy 5695 – Students and Personal Electronic Devices during a Special Meeting at the District Office on Wednesday, July 30, in advance of the Aug. 1 statutory deadline.
A stakeholder group of union leaders, principals, and administrators will meet this week to finalize the policy’s accompanying administrative regulation which includes the implementation plans for all F-M schools. Once finalized, the district will share details with all members of the school community so everyone feels prepared and supported during these changes. Together, we can create a distraction-free environment in which students are present and engaged in their learning.
A dedicated section of the district website will also be made available as a helpful resource. Parents and guardians with questions should contact their student’s building principal.