Dear Families,
In alignment with New York State legislation enacted by Governor Kathy Hochul and Chancellor's Regulation A-413, all public schools are now required to implement a Distraction-Free Learning Policy that limits student access to internet-enabled personal devices—including cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, and similar technology—during the instructional day.
Our school is committed to fostering a focused, safe, and engaging academic environment for all learners. Students are not permitted to access or store internet-enabled devices in their bookbags or on their person during the school day.
Collection and Storage Procedures
To ensure compliance and support of a distraction-free school experience:
- Upon arrival, students must turn off all personal internet-enabled devices.
- Devices will be placed in individualized envelopes during the first period class, collected, and stored in the dean/administrators office for each floor.
- Devices will be returned to students at dismissal.
- Students who arrive late or leave early will follow check-in/check-out protocols in the main office.
The school is not responsible for any lost, damaged, or stolen devices that have NOT been submitted for collection.
Communication During School Hours
If you need to contact your child during the school day, please use one of the following school numbers:
Students may also request permission to use the main office phone in emergencies.
In Case of Emergency
Communication with students and families will be handled promptly through the following procedures:
- Parents/Guardians will be notified via NYC Schools Account (NYSCA). This account allows you to access GAMA and other important school notifications.
- To set up your NYCSA visit https://www.schoolsaccount.nyc/
- Click "Create Account"
- Use the code provided by P.C. Knox. He is available to support parents/guardians with setting up their account as needed. Reach out to him directly to make an appointment.
- Parents/Guardians will also receive updates on the school app. Please visit your APP store and download the Meyer Levin app (look for the school crest).
Authorized Use Exceptions
Students may only use personal devices during the instructional day when:
- Required by a student's IEP or 504 Plan (requires signed documentation from a medical provider)
- Needed for medically documented reasons (i.e. diabetes monitoring: requires signed documentation from a medical provider).
- Approved for translation or caregiving needs
Please ensure all necessary documentation is submitted to the main office via email to Ms. Barrett at abarrett@schools.nyc.gov by September 20, 2025, to ensure appropriate accommodations. Documented medically necessary exceptions will be processed in 24 hours..
Violations & Consequences (Aligned to Chancellor's Regulation A-413)
Students found with an unauthorized internet-enabled device will face the following progressive consequences:
- 1st Offense: Device held in the main office and returned to the student at dismissal.
- 2nd Offense: Parent/guardian must retrieve the device from school.
- 3rd Offense and beyond: Meeting with school leadership. Additional interventions may apply based on the NYC DOE Discipline Code which include but are not limited to exclusion from student activities and community gatherings.
Use of Devices Outside Bell-to-Bell Instruction
Internet-enabled personal devices may be used at the following times only:
- Before School (7:30 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.): To inform parents of safe arrival
- After School (2:50 p.m. Mon-Thurs and 12:50 p.m. on Friday ): As directed by after-school program
- School-Sponsored Activities: School outings off site. Please note phones must be powered down and not used during the field trip unless there is an emergency.
Thank you for your continued support as we prioritize academic achievement, student wellness, and a safe school culture. Should you have questions or need further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,
Jamie Hendrickson
Principal
Meyer Levin School for the Performing Art
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