A new classroom rule is coming to Jersey City this fall. At its meeting on Thursday, September 18, 2025, the Board of Education unanimously approved a policy prohibiting students from using personal communication devices during instructional time. The regulation will be enforced starting Wednesday, October 1, 2025, and applies to all 39 public schools in the district, which serves New Jersey’s second-largest city.
The district stated that the purpose of the ban is to limit classroom distractions, maintain a safe environment, and help students stay focused on learning. This places Jersey City alongside other large school districts nationwide that are introducing stronger limits on technology in education.
Key Takeaways
- The Jersey City Board of Education voted unanimously on September 18, 2025, to ban personal devices in classrooms.
- The ban takes effect on October 1, 2025, across all 39 public schools in the district.
- Students with IEPs, IHPs, or 504 Plans are exempt, while violations will result in confiscation and stricter penalties for repeat offenses.
What the New Policy Includes and Exemptions
The new rule defines personal communication devices (PCDs) as including:
- Computers and laptops
- Tablets and e-readers
- Cellphones and smartphones
- Smartwatches and other internet-enabled devices
Students may not use these devices during classes, bathroom breaks, or any scheduled instructional periods. Instead, devices must either be switched off or set to airplane mode and stored in lockers, backpacks, or designated school containers…