Home / Education / NJ Schools Enforce Strict Cellphone Ban
NJ Schools Enforce Strict Cellphone Ban
8 Sep
Summary
- New Jersey schools implemented a statewide cellphone ban this school year.
- Students must keep devices off and stored away during school hours.
- Newark Public Schools is also continuing its 10-year strategic plan.
New Jersey students are returning to classrooms with a new statewide ban on cellphones and internet-connected devices. This law requires all school districts to create their own enforcement plans for the school year, which began on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. Newark Public Schools, the state's largest district, has implemented an "off and away" policy.
Under this policy, students must keep their devices turned off and stored in their bags, pockets, or lockers. Any student whose device is seen or heard during school hours risks confiscation and the potential loss of their privilege to bring devices to school. The district also indicated that violations will be managed through its disciplinary procedures.
In addition to the new device policy, Newark Public Schools is entering the seventh year of its decade-long strategic plan aimed at transforming the school system. Superintendent Roger Leon, an alumnus of the district, is leading this initiative and is expected to visit multiple schools to welcome students back on the first day of school.
