By: Richard L. Smith
The New Jersey Department of Education has released updated guidance to help local school boards implement bell-to-bell policies that restrict student use of cell phones and other internet-enabled devices during the school day.
The guidance follows recently signed legislation, P.L.2025, c.195, which requires every local board of education in New Jersey to adopt a bell-to-bell policy prohibiting students’ non-academic use of personal devices during school hours, with limited exceptions.
District policies must be aligned with the NJDOE’s statewide guidance, while still allowing flexibility at the local level.
Governor Phil Murphy said the move is intended to refocus classrooms on learning and student engagement, while also supporting youth mental health by limiting distractions caused by constant screen use.
State officials emphasized that the guidance is designed to support districts as they prepare to implement phone-free school days in the upcoming academic year.
Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer said the updated guidelines build on the new law and were shaped by extensive stakeholder input.
He noted that the framework is meant to help schools foster a positive climate, improve academic engagement, and protect student well-being, while recognizing that districts vary in size, resources, and community needs.
The guidance outlines several options for managing student devices, including locked pouch systems, school-managed lockers or bins, classroom-based storage, and student-managed storage such as backpacks or lockers.
While all districts must comply with state law, boards of education retain discretion over how devices are stored, supervised, and enforced during the school day.
In addition, the NJDOE guidance details statutory requirements, policy considerations, and implementation strategies, with developmentally appropriate recommendations for different grade levels.
The department also announced plans to release additional resources, including implementation tools, sample materials, and case examples illustrating how districts can put bell-to-bell policies into practice.
State education officials said the ongoing support is intended to ensure a smooth transition as school districts across New Jersey move toward consistent, phone-free learning environments.