This message was emailed to PT families on Wednesday, August 6, 2025
Dear Pine Tree Elementary Families,
We hope you’re enjoying a restful and safe summer. As we prepare for the 2025–2026 school year, we want to share important information about the newly enacted Distraction-Free Schools NYS law and its impact on our elementary schools.
As Superintendent Norman recently shared, this law supports student mental health and academic success by prohibiting the use of personal electronic devices from arrival until dismissal during school days. The law applies to students in UPK–12 and bans devices such as smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, earbuds, wireless headphones, and other internet-enabled items. School-issued devices are exempt and will continue to be used in the classroom.
At the July 23 Board of Education meeting, the Board approved the Students and Personal Electronic Devices Policy, which outlines how the law will be implemented in our schools. For elementary students, cell phones and personal devices are not permitted during the school day. We strongly recommend that students in kindergarten through grade five leave these devices at home. If students are found with personal devices, they will be collected and returned at dismissal. Families will be notified if this becomes a recurring issue.
Families may request an exemption under specific circumstances, such as for documented medical or disability reasons. A committee will consider each request on a case-by-case basis. Please complete the online exemption request form if you would like to request an exemption for your child. Submission of this form does not guarantee approval, but it is the first step in the review process.
We value family communication. You are welcome to contact the main office to share information with your child, and students may request to call home through the office.
Thank you for your support as we work together to maintain a safe and distraction-free learning environment for all students. You can learn more about the law and the Monroe-Woodbury policy by visiting the district website: https://www.mw.k12.ny.us/page/distraction-free-schools. District leaders have recorded a Crusader Chat, during which they answered questions received from families. View the Crusader Chat.
Families have two additional opportunities to learn more about the distraction-free schools law during virtual meetings with district leaders on Monday, August 25, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. or from 6:00-7:00 p.m. Please complete the online form to share your contact information and we will send you a Google Meet link closer to the Chat date.
If you have questions, please contact me at rgerman@mw.k12.nyus.
Enjoy the remaining days of summer. We look forward to welcoming our students back on September 3!
Sincerely,
Robert German
Principal