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.