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

Cranford Public Schools will implement an "off and away" cellphone policy for the 2026-27 school year in compliance with a new state law restricting personal internet-enabled devices in New Jersey public schools. Superintendent Mark Cantagallo informed families in an August 5 email that the district completed the first reading of an updated Board of Education Policy and Regulation 5516, Student Use of Internet-Enabled Devices.

Under the policy, cellphones and smartwatches are expected to remain turned off and put away throughout the entire school day. Violations could result in device confiscation, parent or guardian notification, and requiring a parent or guardian to retrieve the device.

The approach has already been in place at Cranford's middle schools for the past two years. "This approach over the past two years has been exceedingly successful at our middle schools and we are confident we will meet with similar results across the district," Cantagallo wrote.

The new policy responds to a state law requiring New Jersey public school districts to adopt policies governing student use of internet-enabled devices beginning with the 2026-27 school year. The law calls for restrictions on nonacademic use of smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and other personal internet-connected devices during the school day. While the state mandates districts adopt policies, local school boards have flexibility in implementation. The law allows exceptions for emergencies and when a device is necessary for a student's health, Individualized Education Program, or Section 504 plan.

This article was produced with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy against official sources.

Produced with AI assistance and reviewed against source records.