Denville students head back to class on Tuesday, Sept. 8, and this year they return to a phone rule written in Trenton.
A state law signed Jan. 8, 2026 requires every New Jersey board of education to adopt a bell-to-bell policy barring students from non-academic use of personal internet-enabled devices for the entire school day. The law, P.L.2025, c.195, applies for the first time in the 2026-27 school year.
Bell-to-bell means the whole day, from the opening bell through dismissal, including passing periods and lunch. The rule covers smartphones, tablets, smartwatches and smart glasses. Basic phones that cannot reach the internet, and school-issued devices used for classwork, are treated separately.
The New Jersey Department of Education released updated guidance in January that districts must follow. It lays out storage options boards can choose from, including locked pouch systems, school lockers or bins, classroom storage stations, or simply requiring students to keep devices powered off in a backpack or locker. Each board decides which method fits its buildings.
The law also spells out exceptions. Students may use a device when an IEP, a 504 plan or a documented health plan calls for it, for translation services, for a student caregiver responsible for a family member, when a principal authorizes it because no reasonable alternative exists, when required by law, and in an emergency.
Denville was already close to the mark. The district has long prohibited personal electronic communication devices during the school day and posted a reminder to families about that policy. Boards may also go further than the state guidance if they choose.
The rule reaches past Denville’s three district schools. Every board of education in New Jersey is covered, including the Morris Hills Regional District, which operates Morris Knolls High School.
The Denville Board of Education held its combined work session and regular meeting on Aug. 17. Families with questions about how the policy will work in their child’s building should check the student handbook and the district website before the first day.
Photo by Deane Bayas on Pexels.
