Phone Free Inititative

The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) has finally introduced its inaugural Phone-Free Schools Grant Program, advocating a Bell-to-Bell cell phone policy in schools.

Why it matters: This initiative is pivotal in minimizing distractions and enhancing the learning environment by ensuring students' devices are securely stored during school hours.

  • Funding is distributed based on student enrollment for grades 6-12, with a baseline of $500.

  • Flexibility in funding is available if not all eligible districts participate.

The big picture: Participating districts are required to implement the Bell-to-Bell policy, which involves collecting students' devices upon arrival and returning them at dismissal. Only comprehensive policies are eligible, excluding "Off and Away" or "Limited Use" approaches.

What's next: We will submit the necessary documentation by October 31, 2025, and need to adopt a formal board resolution by January 16, 2026, to qualify for funds.