Overview<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n- All student cell phones and smartwatches will be collected by school personnel when students arrive at the school building each morning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Devices will be collected and securely stored for the duration of the school day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Devices will be returned to students at the end of each student\u2019s instructional day, or at 3:30 PM, whichever comes first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Devices will not be returned for outside lunch or any other time during the school day.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Personal Electronic Devices Subject to Collection<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n- Personal cell phones<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Smartwatches (e.g., Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Other internet-enabled personal electronic devices not being used for academic
purposes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nStorage<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n- Student devices will be securely stored in individually labeled bins. Each student will be assigned their own 7.5\u201d x 4\u201d bin in the Portable Bin Organizer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- There will be one portable bin organizer per grade.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Once all phones are collected, the 4 portable bin organizers will be secured in the 2nd
floor storage closet.<\/li>\n\n\n\n - The closet will remain locked for the duration of the school day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bins and portable bin organizers will be monitored by school personnel during all arrival
and dismissal times.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/bhsec.bard.edu\/manhattan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-21-at-1.21.22-PM-1.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nProcedure<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nArrival<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n- Students enter the main entrance on Mangin Street and proceed up to the 2nd floor via the main staircase.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- After swiping their IDs at the CAASS terminal, students will enter the auditorium through the center doors and find their grade\u2019s portable, color-coded, bin organizer.\n
\n- Red: 9th grade<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Yellow: 10th grade<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Blue: Year 1<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Green: Year 2<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students place their cell phones and\/or smart watches in their individually labeled bins<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students exit the auditorium through the north or south doors and proceed to breakfast or class.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students who voluntarily arrive to the building before the start of their instructional day must submit their devices upon arrival.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students who arrive late to shool will submit their devices upon arrival. Devices will be placed in students\u2019 individual bins by school personnel and returned following normal protocols.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Dismissal<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n- After their last scheduled instructional period, students may enter the auditorium through the north or south doors, retrieve devices from individually labeled bins, and exit through the center doors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students with no scheduled 8th period class may retrieve their devices at the end of 7th period, but they must leave the building immediately.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students with no scheduled 8th period class who wish to remain in the building, must wait to retrieve their devices until 3:30 PM, the end of 8th period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- All remaining devices will be returned at the end of the instructional day at 3:30.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students are permitted to have their devices with them during after school activities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/bhsec.bard.edu\/manhattan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-21-at-1.32.39-PM-1003x1024.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nDevice Use During Non-Instructional Times<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students will not have access to their devices at any point during the school day. This includes passing periods (the 4 minutes between each class), study periods (AKA free periods), or lunch. Students who choose to leave the school building to get lunch off campus will not have their phones returned to them for their trip outside of the school building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nEmergency Contact<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
To ensure that students and families can reach each other in cases of emergency, school landline phones are available throughout the school building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nParents calling to reach their student<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Parents can call the school\u2019s main phone line at 212-995-8479 to request to speak with their student. In most cases, a callback number will be requested and students will return their parents\u2019 phone call as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nStudents calling their parents<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students may request the use of a landline phone to call their parents during the school day. This should occur during a study or lunch period, or with written permission from a teacher. In cases of emergency, students will be permitted to use the phone in the Main Office or the nurse’s office immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nLandline Phone Availability<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Landline phones are available upon request in the following school spaces:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nRoom Number<\/strong><\/td>Staff Name<\/strong><\/td>Staff Role<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>204 <\/td> Jasmine Coombs<\/td> Smart Scholars Director<\/td><\/tr> 205 Book Room<\/td> Betty Zeneli<\/td> School Aide<\/td><\/tr> 207<\/td> Nurse’s Office<\/td> School Nurse<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Sylvie Epstein<\/td> Admissions Director<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Beth Cheikes<\/td> Director of College Transfer Office<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Val Thomson<\/td> Senior Advisor to the Principal<\/td><\/tr> 228 Main Office<\/td> Carol Turitz<\/td> Parent Coordinator<\/td><\/tr> 228 Main Office<\/td> Zayra Taveras<\/td> Administrative Assistant<\/td><\/tr> 332<\/td> Stacie Millman<\/td> Guidance Counselor (students L-Z)<\/td><\/tr> 405<\/td> Claire Nolan<\/td> Librarian<\/td><\/tr> 407A<\/td> Bill Hinrichs<\/td> Dean of Academic Life<\/td><\/tr> 407B<\/td> Adeodat Ilboudo<\/td> Dean of Studies<\/td><\/tr> 422<\/td> Jess Chock-Goldman<\/td> Director of Clinical Services<\/td><\/tr> 526<\/td> Anna Azeglio-Stranahan<\/td> Guidance Counselor (students A-K)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nMedical, IEP, and 504 Accommodation Related Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
All requests for exceptions will be submitted to the Main Office using the BHSEC Cell Phone Policy Exception Request form. Requests will be reviewed by appropriate school staff and will be approved or denied by the principal. Requests that do not receive approval may be resubmitted once per marking period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nMedical Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students with medical needs may be permitted to carry and use personal internet-enabled electronic devices during the school day when absolutely necessary for healthcare management. A licensed medical provider must confirm in writing that the device is medically necessary to monitor or alert the student regarding a medical condition. Students with a documented medical exception may use the device only as specified in the approved plan\u2014for example, to receive alerts from a glucose monitor or insulin pump. All other policy rules remain in effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nIEP and 504 Accommodation Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students may be eligible for an exception to the school\u2019s personal device policy if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- The student\u2019s IEP or 504 Plan explicitly authorizes the use of a personal device for medical or instructional purposes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The use of the personal device is essential for the student to access the curriculum, communicate, or manage a documented medical condition. School personnel will prioritize issuing school tablets and laptops to students with IEP or 504 related needs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Response to Policy Violations<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
When a student does not follow this policy, our primary goal is to guide behavior in a supportive and respectful manner. If students are seen with phones or smartwatches in the school building, school personnel will simply help the student be in compliance with the policy. This means that the student\u2019s device will be put in its designated bin until the end of the school day, at which time the device will be returned to the student following normal protocols. Students will not be suspended solely for cell phone policy violations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Consistent with the NYC DOE\u2019s Citywide Behavioral Expectations and the school\u2019s commitment to restorative practices, our responses are designed to promote accountability, rebuild trust, and strengthen our learning community. All incidents of non-compliance will be addressed using a progressive, developmentally appropriate approach. In addition to the approach stated above, this may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Gentle reminders and redirection<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Private conversations to reflect on the impact of the behavior<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Guidance conferences involving the student, and when appropriate, a parent or
caregiver<\/li>\n\n\n\n - Collaborative problem-solving or the development of a behavioral agreement<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Restorative practices, such as community circles or structured dialogue with peers and
staff<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nIn rare cases where device misuse persistently disrupts the school environment, more formal corrective actions may be considered in accordance with the NYC DOE Discipline Code, ensuring that all steps are aligned with the principles of fairness, dignity, and student growth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Throughout this process, our focus remains on supporting a productive learning environment, learning from mistakes, and fostering the habits of self-regulation and responsible decision-making. Families are viewed as essential partners in this work and will be engaged early and meaningfully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nConclusion<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
This policy reflects our shared commitment at BHSEC Manhattan to creating a learning environment where every student can thrive\u2014an environment rooted in respect, focus, and intellectual curiosity. In alignment with New York City regulations and New York State education law, this policy ensures that our school remains a safe and supportive place for deep learning and academic risk-taking.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As part of the Bard College network, BHSEC is guided by the belief that high school students are capable of college-level work when they are given the structure, trust, and freedom to engage fully in their studies. By setting clear expectations around the use of personal devices, we are safeguarding the time and space needed for meaningful dialogue, rigorous scholarship, and authentic community building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Personal Electronic Devices Subject to Collection<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n- Personal cell phones<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Smartwatches (e.g., Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Other internet-enabled personal electronic devices not being used for academic
purposes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nStorage<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n- Student devices will be securely stored in individually labeled bins. Each student will be assigned their own 7.5\u201d x 4\u201d bin in the Portable Bin Organizer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- There will be one portable bin organizer per grade.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Once all phones are collected, the 4 portable bin organizers will be secured in the 2nd
floor storage closet.<\/li>\n\n\n\n - The closet will remain locked for the duration of the school day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bins and portable bin organizers will be monitored by school personnel during all arrival
and dismissal times.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nProcedure<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nArrival<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n- Students enter the main entrance on Mangin Street and proceed up to the 2nd floor via the main staircase.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- After swiping their IDs at the CAASS terminal, students will enter the auditorium through the center doors and find their grade\u2019s portable, color-coded, bin organizer.\n
\n- Red: 9th grade<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Yellow: 10th grade<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Blue: Year 1<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Green: Year 2<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students place their cell phones and\/or smart watches in their individually labeled bins<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students exit the auditorium through the north or south doors and proceed to breakfast or class.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students who voluntarily arrive to the building before the start of their instructional day must submit their devices upon arrival.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students who arrive late to shool will submit their devices upon arrival. Devices will be placed in students\u2019 individual bins by school personnel and returned following normal protocols.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Dismissal<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n- After their last scheduled instructional period, students may enter the auditorium through the north or south doors, retrieve devices from individually labeled bins, and exit through the center doors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students with no scheduled 8th period class may retrieve their devices at the end of 7th period, but they must leave the building immediately.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students with no scheduled 8th period class who wish to remain in the building, must wait to retrieve their devices until 3:30 PM, the end of 8th period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- All remaining devices will be returned at the end of the instructional day at 3:30.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students are permitted to have their devices with them during after school activities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Device Use During Non-Instructional Times<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students will not have access to their devices at any point during the school day. This includes passing periods (the 4 minutes between each class), study periods (AKA free periods), or lunch. Students who choose to leave the school building to get lunch off campus will not have their phones returned to them for their trip outside of the school building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nEmergency Contact<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
To ensure that students and families can reach each other in cases of emergency, school landline phones are available throughout the school building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nParents calling to reach their student<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Parents can call the school\u2019s main phone line at 212-995-8479 to request to speak with their student. In most cases, a callback number will be requested and students will return their parents\u2019 phone call as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nStudents calling their parents<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students may request the use of a landline phone to call their parents during the school day. This should occur during a study or lunch period, or with written permission from a teacher. In cases of emergency, students will be permitted to use the phone in the Main Office or the nurse’s office immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nLandline Phone Availability<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Landline phones are available upon request in the following school spaces:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nRoom Number<\/strong><\/td>Staff Name<\/strong><\/td>Staff Role<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>204 <\/td> Jasmine Coombs<\/td> Smart Scholars Director<\/td><\/tr> 205 Book Room<\/td> Betty Zeneli<\/td> School Aide<\/td><\/tr> 207<\/td> Nurse’s Office<\/td> School Nurse<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Sylvie Epstein<\/td> Admissions Director<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Beth Cheikes<\/td> Director of College Transfer Office<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Val Thomson<\/td> Senior Advisor to the Principal<\/td><\/tr> 228 Main Office<\/td> Carol Turitz<\/td> Parent Coordinator<\/td><\/tr> 228 Main Office<\/td> Zayra Taveras<\/td> Administrative Assistant<\/td><\/tr> 332<\/td> Stacie Millman<\/td> Guidance Counselor (students L-Z)<\/td><\/tr> 405<\/td> Claire Nolan<\/td> Librarian<\/td><\/tr> 407A<\/td> Bill Hinrichs<\/td> Dean of Academic Life<\/td><\/tr> 407B<\/td> Adeodat Ilboudo<\/td> Dean of Studies<\/td><\/tr> 422<\/td> Jess Chock-Goldman<\/td> Director of Clinical Services<\/td><\/tr> 526<\/td> Anna Azeglio-Stranahan<\/td> Guidance Counselor (students A-K)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nMedical, IEP, and 504 Accommodation Related Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
All requests for exceptions will be submitted to the Main Office using the BHSEC Cell Phone Policy Exception Request form. Requests will be reviewed by appropriate school staff and will be approved or denied by the principal. Requests that do not receive approval may be resubmitted once per marking period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nMedical Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students with medical needs may be permitted to carry and use personal internet-enabled electronic devices during the school day when absolutely necessary for healthcare management. A licensed medical provider must confirm in writing that the device is medically necessary to monitor or alert the student regarding a medical condition. Students with a documented medical exception may use the device only as specified in the approved plan\u2014for example, to receive alerts from a glucose monitor or insulin pump. All other policy rules remain in effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nIEP and 504 Accommodation Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students may be eligible for an exception to the school\u2019s personal device policy if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- The student\u2019s IEP or 504 Plan explicitly authorizes the use of a personal device for medical or instructional purposes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The use of the personal device is essential for the student to access the curriculum, communicate, or manage a documented medical condition. School personnel will prioritize issuing school tablets and laptops to students with IEP or 504 related needs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Response to Policy Violations<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
When a student does not follow this policy, our primary goal is to guide behavior in a supportive and respectful manner. If students are seen with phones or smartwatches in the school building, school personnel will simply help the student be in compliance with the policy. This means that the student\u2019s device will be put in its designated bin until the end of the school day, at which time the device will be returned to the student following normal protocols. Students will not be suspended solely for cell phone policy violations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Consistent with the NYC DOE\u2019s Citywide Behavioral Expectations and the school\u2019s commitment to restorative practices, our responses are designed to promote accountability, rebuild trust, and strengthen our learning community. All incidents of non-compliance will be addressed using a progressive, developmentally appropriate approach. In addition to the approach stated above, this may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Gentle reminders and redirection<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Private conversations to reflect on the impact of the behavior<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Guidance conferences involving the student, and when appropriate, a parent or
caregiver<\/li>\n\n\n\n - Collaborative problem-solving or the development of a behavioral agreement<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Restorative practices, such as community circles or structured dialogue with peers and
staff<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nIn rare cases where device misuse persistently disrupts the school environment, more formal corrective actions may be considered in accordance with the NYC DOE Discipline Code, ensuring that all steps are aligned with the principles of fairness, dignity, and student growth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Throughout this process, our focus remains on supporting a productive learning environment, learning from mistakes, and fostering the habits of self-regulation and responsible decision-making. Families are viewed as essential partners in this work and will be engaged early and meaningfully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nConclusion<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
This policy reflects our shared commitment at BHSEC Manhattan to creating a learning environment where every student can thrive\u2014an environment rooted in respect, focus, and intellectual curiosity. In alignment with New York City regulations and New York State education law, this policy ensures that our school remains a safe and supportive place for deep learning and academic risk-taking.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As part of the Bard College network, BHSEC is guided by the belief that high school students are capable of college-level work when they are given the structure, trust, and freedom to engage fully in their studies. By setting clear expectations around the use of personal devices, we are safeguarding the time and space needed for meaningful dialogue, rigorous scholarship, and authentic community building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
purposes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Storage<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n- Student devices will be securely stored in individually labeled bins. Each student will be assigned their own 7.5\u201d x 4\u201d bin in the Portable Bin Organizer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- There will be one portable bin organizer per grade.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Once all phones are collected, the 4 portable bin organizers will be secured in the 2nd
floor storage closet.<\/li>\n\n\n\n - The closet will remain locked for the duration of the school day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bins and portable bin organizers will be monitored by school personnel during all arrival
and dismissal times.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nProcedure<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nArrival<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n- Students enter the main entrance on Mangin Street and proceed up to the 2nd floor via the main staircase.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- After swiping their IDs at the CAASS terminal, students will enter the auditorium through the center doors and find their grade\u2019s portable, color-coded, bin organizer.\n
\n- Red: 9th grade<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Yellow: 10th grade<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Blue: Year 1<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Green: Year 2<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students place their cell phones and\/or smart watches in their individually labeled bins<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students exit the auditorium through the north or south doors and proceed to breakfast or class.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students who voluntarily arrive to the building before the start of their instructional day must submit their devices upon arrival.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students who arrive late to shool will submit their devices upon arrival. Devices will be placed in students\u2019 individual bins by school personnel and returned following normal protocols.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Dismissal<\/h6>\n\n\n\n\n- After their last scheduled instructional period, students may enter the auditorium through the north or south doors, retrieve devices from individually labeled bins, and exit through the center doors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students with no scheduled 8th period class may retrieve their devices at the end of 7th period, but they must leave the building immediately.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students with no scheduled 8th period class who wish to remain in the building, must wait to retrieve their devices until 3:30 PM, the end of 8th period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- All remaining devices will be returned at the end of the instructional day at 3:30.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students are permitted to have their devices with them during after school activities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Device Use During Non-Instructional Times<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students will not have access to their devices at any point during the school day. This includes passing periods (the 4 minutes between each class), study periods (AKA free periods), or lunch. Students who choose to leave the school building to get lunch off campus will not have their phones returned to them for their trip outside of the school building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nEmergency Contact<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
To ensure that students and families can reach each other in cases of emergency, school landline phones are available throughout the school building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nParents calling to reach their student<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Parents can call the school\u2019s main phone line at 212-995-8479 to request to speak with their student. In most cases, a callback number will be requested and students will return their parents\u2019 phone call as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nStudents calling their parents<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students may request the use of a landline phone to call their parents during the school day. This should occur during a study or lunch period, or with written permission from a teacher. In cases of emergency, students will be permitted to use the phone in the Main Office or the nurse’s office immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nLandline Phone Availability<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Landline phones are available upon request in the following school spaces:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nRoom Number<\/strong><\/td>Staff Name<\/strong><\/td>Staff Role<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>204 <\/td> Jasmine Coombs<\/td> Smart Scholars Director<\/td><\/tr> 205 Book Room<\/td> Betty Zeneli<\/td> School Aide<\/td><\/tr> 207<\/td> Nurse’s Office<\/td> School Nurse<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Sylvie Epstein<\/td> Admissions Director<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Beth Cheikes<\/td> Director of College Transfer Office<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Val Thomson<\/td> Senior Advisor to the Principal<\/td><\/tr> 228 Main Office<\/td> Carol Turitz<\/td> Parent Coordinator<\/td><\/tr> 228 Main Office<\/td> Zayra Taveras<\/td> Administrative Assistant<\/td><\/tr> 332<\/td> Stacie Millman<\/td> Guidance Counselor (students L-Z)<\/td><\/tr> 405<\/td> Claire Nolan<\/td> Librarian<\/td><\/tr> 407A<\/td> Bill Hinrichs<\/td> Dean of Academic Life<\/td><\/tr> 407B<\/td> Adeodat Ilboudo<\/td> Dean of Studies<\/td><\/tr> 422<\/td> Jess Chock-Goldman<\/td> Director of Clinical Services<\/td><\/tr> 526<\/td> Anna Azeglio-Stranahan<\/td> Guidance Counselor (students A-K)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nMedical, IEP, and 504 Accommodation Related Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
All requests for exceptions will be submitted to the Main Office using the BHSEC Cell Phone Policy Exception Request form. Requests will be reviewed by appropriate school staff and will be approved or denied by the principal. Requests that do not receive approval may be resubmitted once per marking period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nMedical Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students with medical needs may be permitted to carry and use personal internet-enabled electronic devices during the school day when absolutely necessary for healthcare management. A licensed medical provider must confirm in writing that the device is medically necessary to monitor or alert the student regarding a medical condition. Students with a documented medical exception may use the device only as specified in the approved plan\u2014for example, to receive alerts from a glucose monitor or insulin pump. All other policy rules remain in effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nIEP and 504 Accommodation Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students may be eligible for an exception to the school\u2019s personal device policy if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- The student\u2019s IEP or 504 Plan explicitly authorizes the use of a personal device for medical or instructional purposes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The use of the personal device is essential for the student to access the curriculum, communicate, or manage a documented medical condition. School personnel will prioritize issuing school tablets and laptops to students with IEP or 504 related needs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Response to Policy Violations<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
When a student does not follow this policy, our primary goal is to guide behavior in a supportive and respectful manner. If students are seen with phones or smartwatches in the school building, school personnel will simply help the student be in compliance with the policy. This means that the student\u2019s device will be put in its designated bin until the end of the school day, at which time the device will be returned to the student following normal protocols. Students will not be suspended solely for cell phone policy violations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Consistent with the NYC DOE\u2019s Citywide Behavioral Expectations and the school\u2019s commitment to restorative practices, our responses are designed to promote accountability, rebuild trust, and strengthen our learning community. All incidents of non-compliance will be addressed using a progressive, developmentally appropriate approach. In addition to the approach stated above, this may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Gentle reminders and redirection<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Private conversations to reflect on the impact of the behavior<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Guidance conferences involving the student, and when appropriate, a parent or
caregiver<\/li>\n\n\n\n - Collaborative problem-solving or the development of a behavioral agreement<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Restorative practices, such as community circles or structured dialogue with peers and
staff<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nIn rare cases where device misuse persistently disrupts the school environment, more formal corrective actions may be considered in accordance with the NYC DOE Discipline Code, ensuring that all steps are aligned with the principles of fairness, dignity, and student growth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Throughout this process, our focus remains on supporting a productive learning environment, learning from mistakes, and fostering the habits of self-regulation and responsible decision-making. Families are viewed as essential partners in this work and will be engaged early and meaningfully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nConclusion<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
This policy reflects our shared commitment at BHSEC Manhattan to creating a learning environment where every student can thrive\u2014an environment rooted in respect, focus, and intellectual curiosity. In alignment with New York City regulations and New York State education law, this policy ensures that our school remains a safe and supportive place for deep learning and academic risk-taking.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As part of the Bard College network, BHSEC is guided by the belief that high school students are capable of college-level work when they are given the structure, trust, and freedom to engage fully in their studies. By setting clear expectations around the use of personal devices, we are safeguarding the time and space needed for meaningful dialogue, rigorous scholarship, and authentic community building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Student devices will be securely stored in individually labeled bins. Each student will be assigned their own 7.5\u201d x 4\u201d bin in the Portable Bin Organizer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- There will be one portable bin organizer per grade.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Once all phones are collected, the 4 portable bin organizers will be secured in the 2nd
floor storage closet.<\/li>\n\n\n\n - The closet will remain locked for the duration of the school day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bins and portable bin organizers will be monitored by school personnel during all arrival
and dismissal times.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nProcedure<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nArrival<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Students enter the main entrance on Mangin Street and proceed up to the 2nd floor via the main staircase.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- After swiping their IDs at the CAASS terminal, students will enter the auditorium through the center doors and find their grade\u2019s portable, color-coded, bin organizer.\n
- \n
- Red: 9th grade<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Yellow: 10th grade<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Blue: Year 1<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Green: Year 2<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students place their cell phones and\/or smart watches in their individually labeled bins<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students exit the auditorium through the north or south doors and proceed to breakfast or class.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students who voluntarily arrive to the building before the start of their instructional day must submit their devices upon arrival.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students who arrive late to shool will submit their devices upon arrival. Devices will be placed in students\u2019 individual bins by school personnel and returned following normal protocols.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Dismissal<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- After their last scheduled instructional period, students may enter the auditorium through the north or south doors, retrieve devices from individually labeled bins, and exit through the center doors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students with no scheduled 8th period class may retrieve their devices at the end of 7th period, but they must leave the building immediately.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students with no scheduled 8th period class who wish to remain in the building, must wait to retrieve their devices until 3:30 PM, the end of 8th period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- All remaining devices will be returned at the end of the instructional day at 3:30.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Students are permitted to have their devices with them during after school activities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Device Use During Non-Instructional Times<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students will not have access to their devices at any point during the school day. This includes passing periods (the 4 minutes between each class), study periods (AKA free periods), or lunch. Students who choose to leave the school building to get lunch off campus will not have their phones returned to them for their trip outside of the school building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nEmergency Contact<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
To ensure that students and families can reach each other in cases of emergency, school landline phones are available throughout the school building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nParents calling to reach their student<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Parents can call the school\u2019s main phone line at 212-995-8479 to request to speak with their student. In most cases, a callback number will be requested and students will return their parents\u2019 phone call as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nStudents calling their parents<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students may request the use of a landline phone to call their parents during the school day. This should occur during a study or lunch period, or with written permission from a teacher. In cases of emergency, students will be permitted to use the phone in the Main Office or the nurse’s office immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nLandline Phone Availability<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Landline phones are available upon request in the following school spaces:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nRoom Number<\/strong><\/td> Staff Name<\/strong><\/td> Staff Role<\/strong><\/td><\/tr> 204 <\/td> Jasmine Coombs<\/td> Smart Scholars Director<\/td><\/tr> 205 Book Room<\/td> Betty Zeneli<\/td> School Aide<\/td><\/tr> 207<\/td> Nurse’s Office<\/td> School Nurse<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Sylvie Epstein<\/td> Admissions Director<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Beth Cheikes<\/td> Director of College Transfer Office<\/td><\/tr> 209<\/td> Val Thomson<\/td> Senior Advisor to the Principal<\/td><\/tr> 228 Main Office<\/td> Carol Turitz<\/td> Parent Coordinator<\/td><\/tr> 228 Main Office<\/td> Zayra Taveras<\/td> Administrative Assistant<\/td><\/tr> 332<\/td> Stacie Millman<\/td> Guidance Counselor (students L-Z)<\/td><\/tr> 405<\/td> Claire Nolan<\/td> Librarian<\/td><\/tr> 407A<\/td> Bill Hinrichs<\/td> Dean of Academic Life<\/td><\/tr> 407B<\/td> Adeodat Ilboudo<\/td> Dean of Studies<\/td><\/tr> 422<\/td> Jess Chock-Goldman<\/td> Director of Clinical Services<\/td><\/tr> 526<\/td> Anna Azeglio-Stranahan<\/td> Guidance Counselor (students A-K)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n <\/div>\n\n\n\nMedical, IEP, and 504 Accommodation Related Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
All requests for exceptions will be submitted to the Main Office using the BHSEC Cell Phone Policy Exception Request form. Requests will be reviewed by appropriate school staff and will be approved or denied by the principal. Requests that do not receive approval may be resubmitted once per marking period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nMedical Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students with medical needs may be permitted to carry and use personal internet-enabled electronic devices during the school day when absolutely necessary for healthcare management. A licensed medical provider must confirm in writing that the device is medically necessary to monitor or alert the student regarding a medical condition. Students with a documented medical exception may use the device only as specified in the approved plan\u2014for example, to receive alerts from a glucose monitor or insulin pump. All other policy rules remain in effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nIEP and 504 Accommodation Exceptions<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Students may be eligible for an exception to the school\u2019s personal device policy if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- The student\u2019s IEP or 504 Plan explicitly authorizes the use of a personal device for medical or instructional purposes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The use of the personal device is essential for the student to access the curriculum, communicate, or manage a documented medical condition. School personnel will prioritize issuing school tablets and laptops to students with IEP or 504 related needs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Response to Policy Violations<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
When a student does not follow this policy, our primary goal is to guide behavior in a supportive and respectful manner. If students are seen with phones or smartwatches in the school building, school personnel will simply help the student be in compliance with the policy. This means that the student\u2019s device will be put in its designated bin until the end of the school day, at which time the device will be returned to the student following normal protocols. Students will not be suspended solely for cell phone policy violations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Consistent with the NYC DOE\u2019s Citywide Behavioral Expectations and the school\u2019s commitment to restorative practices, our responses are designed to promote accountability, rebuild trust, and strengthen our learning community. All incidents of non-compliance will be addressed using a progressive, developmentally appropriate approach. In addition to the approach stated above, this may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Gentle reminders and redirection<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Private conversations to reflect on the impact of the behavior<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Guidance conferences involving the student, and when appropriate, a parent or
caregiver<\/li>\n\n\n\n - Collaborative problem-solving or the development of a behavioral agreement<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Restorative practices, such as community circles or structured dialogue with peers and
staff<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nIn rare cases where device misuse persistently disrupts the school environment, more formal corrective actions may be considered in accordance with the NYC DOE Discipline Code, ensuring that all steps are aligned with the principles of fairness, dignity, and student growth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Throughout this process, our focus remains on supporting a productive learning environment, learning from mistakes, and fostering the habits of self-regulation and responsible decision-making. Families are viewed as essential partners in this work and will be engaged early and meaningfully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nConclusion<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
This policy reflects our shared commitment at BHSEC Manhattan to creating a learning environment where every student can thrive\u2014an environment rooted in respect, focus, and intellectual curiosity. In alignment with New York City regulations and New York State education law, this policy ensures that our school remains a safe and supportive place for deep learning and academic risk-taking.
<\/p>\n\n\n\nAs part of the Bard College network, BHSEC is guided by the belief that high school students are capable of college-level work when they are given the structure, trust, and freedom to engage fully in their studies. By setting clear expectations around the use of personal devices, we are safeguarding the time and space needed for meaningful dialogue, rigorous scholarship, and authentic community building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n