Dear HCSD Parents and Guardians,

The Highland Central School District Board of Education has approved a new Student Use of Personal Technology policy, which will go into effect in all schools on March 17, 2025. This policy is designed to maintain a safe and focused learning environment for all students while ensuring the responsible use of technology in our schools.

A copy of the new policy can be found here.

Key Points of the Policy

The new policy requires that all personal electronic devices, including cell phones, smartwatches, and other internet-capable devices, remain stored in students’ backpacks during instructional time. Usage guidelines vary by school building, with restrictions applying not only in the classroom but also during non-instructional periods in some cases. Use of personal electronic devices before and after school is still permitted.

Since the District provides students with internet-capable computing tools for academic purposes, personal devices are not necessary for classroom activities. However, students who require assistive technology as part of an accommodation plan will have their needs addressed separately.

Below is a summary of how the policy will be applied at each school:

• Highland Elementary School: Students may bring personal electronic devices to school, but they must remain in their backpacks throughout the day. Device use is not permitted during instructional time, lunch, or recess.
• Highland Middle School: Students may carry personal electronic devices, but they must remain stored in backpacks at all times. Device use is not allowed during instructional or non-instructional periods, including lunch and study hall.
• Highland High School: Students may carry personal electronic devices but must store them in backpacks during class. Use is only allowed during non-instructional periods, such as study hall and lunch.

We appreciate your support in reinforcing these guidelines with your child to promote a productive and respectful school environment.  If you have any questions or need further clarification, please contact your child’s school.

Sincerely,

Joel Freer
Superintendent of Schools