Cranford Schools Plan 'Off and Away' Cellphone Policy for 2026-27 School Year

Cranford Public Schools will implement a strict off and away personal device policy for the 2026–27 academic year. The new rules comply with a recent state mandate restricting personal internet enabled devices in public schools across New Jersey.

Superintendent Mark Cantagallo notified district families that the Board of Education completed its first reading of the updated policy. Under these guidelines, all cellphones and smartwatches must remain turned off and out of sight during the school day. Union County Life learned that infractions may lead to device confiscation, mandatory guardian notifications, and a requirement for parents to personally retrieve the items.

The district previously tested this strategy at the middle school level over the last two years. School officials reported that the trial was highly successful in reducing distractions. The overarching state law grants local boards flexibility in how they enforce the rules but requires policies to limit nonacademic device usage. Cranford will still maintain legal exceptions for medical necessity, emergencies, individualized education programs, and section 504 plans.

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FAQ:
Q: What happens if a student violates the Cranford school cellphone policy?
A: Violations can result in the device being confiscated, notification sent to guardians, and a requirement for a parent to pick up the device.

Q: Are there any exceptions to the school device ban?
A: Yes, exceptions are permitted for student health needs, emergencies, individualized education programs, or section 504 plans.

Q: Has this cellphone policy been used in Cranford before?
A: The off and away approach was utilized successfully at Cranford middle schools during the prior two academic years.