Student Personal Device Use
New State Requirement Beginning Sept. 2, 2026
Beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, New Jersey law requires all public school districts to implement a "bell-to-bell" restriction on student use of personal internet-enabled devices during the school day.
Beginning Sept. 2, students at Randolph Township Schools must keep personal internet-enabled devices powered off and stored throughout the school day. This page provides an overview of the new requirement, answers to frequently asked questions and additional resources for students and families.
Why This Change?
New Jersey's student personal device law is intended to reduce distractions, support student engagement and create learning environments that promote focus, well-being and meaningful interaction. As required by state law, all New Jersey public school districts must implement policies governing student use of personal internet-enabled devices during the school day.
What Is Changing?
Beginning Sept. 2, students must keep personal internet-enabled devices:
- Powered off
- Stored and out of sight
- Unused throughout the instructional day, unless an approved exception applies
This requirement applies throughout the regular school day, including classes, passing periods, lunch, assemblies and other school-sponsored activities that occur during the instructional day.
Devices Included
The requirement applies to personal internet-enabled devices, including:
- Cell phones and smartphones
- Smartwatches
- Tablets
- Earbuds connected to personal devices
- Smart glasses
- Personal gaming devices
- Other personal devices used for communication or internet access
Students will continue to use district-issued technology and approved educational platforms as directed by their teachers.
Our Commitment
Randolph Township Schools is committed to implementing this state requirement in a manner that supports a distraction-free learning environment where students can fully engage in instruction and one another.
Questions?
Families with questions about school-specific procedures or implementation should contact their child's school building. This page and the accompanying FAQ document will be updated as additional information becomes available.
