In accordance with New York State and New York City Department of Education Chancellor’s Regulations, cell phones and all internet-enabled devices are not permitted for use during school hours.
Families can review the official DOE policy and Q&A here:
NYC DOE Cell Phone Policy
Devices Covered by This Policy
This policy applies to all internet-enabled devices, including:
Cell phones
Non-DOE IPADS / Tablets
iPods / MP3 players
Smart watches
Portable gaming devices
Any device capable of connecting to the internet
Laptops are allowed for academic use.
Tablets are prohibited unless the school grants specific clearance.
Validus Preparatory Academy 2025–2026
Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy
Key Distinction:
Cell phones are collected and secured in Yondr pouches. Students are responsible for keeping and properly maintaining their assigned Yondr pouch throughout the school day.
All other prohibited devices must remain out of sight (in backpacks or lockers) at all times.
If any prohibited device is seen or used, the same progressive discipline applies.
Non‑phone devices are not collected unless they become an ongoing issue. If a student repeatedly misuses a device like a smart watch, tablet, or headphones, it will then be collected and the progressive discipline system will apply just like a cell phone.
Yondr Pouch System (Cell Phones Only)
Each student receives a Yondr pouch assigned to them.
Phones are locked by the student each morning and carried in the pouch during the day.
Pouches are unlocked at dismissal for phone retrieval.
Students are responsible for their pouch. Lost or damaged pouches require a $20 replacement fee.
Progressive Discipline for Violations
If a student is observed using a cell phone or any prohibited device during the school day:
First Incident
Device is confiscated for the day.
Parent/guardian is notified.
Phone is returned at dismissal.
Second Incident
Device (if a phone) is confiscated, and parent/guardian must retrieve it from the school.
After this incident, the student loses the privilege of carrying a Yondr pouch.
Moving forward, the student’s phone is collected each morning and stored in the principal’s, assistant principal’s, or dean’s office, to be returned at dismissal daily.
Third Incident
Parent/guardian conference required.
One‑day suspension issued.
Additional Incidents:
Further increased suspensions and a family meeting to determine next steps.
Headphones, Earpods, and Over‑Ear Headphones
No headphones, earpods, or over‑ear headphones may be worn anywhere in the school during the day.
Since all internet-enabled devices are secured or prohibited, there is nothing for these headphones to connect to via Bluetooth.
Headphones are not collected by the school unless they become a repeated issue.
Students may bring them for travel to and from school, but they must be stored in backpacks or lockers during the day.
Students seen wearing headphones in hallways, classrooms, or common areas are in violation of this policy.
If headphones or any other prohibited device repeatedly becomes an issue, it will be collected and treated under the same progressive discipline system as cell phones.
**All Exceptions must be approved by Administration in advance!**
**All Exceptions must be approved by Administration in advance!**
Exceptions to This Policy
Our school’s exceptions are exactly the same as the New York City DOE’s exceptions:
By students with medical conditions that require the use of electronic devices to monitor them, such as glucose monitors for diabetes. Parents must inform the school and provide any necessary documentation for authorization.
For translation services, to assist students who need language support not currently provided by their school
If required by an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan.
By student caregivers, on a case‑by‑case basis. A school psychologist, school social worker, or school counselor will determine if exceptions may be granted for a student caregiver who is routinely responsible for the care and wellbeing of a family member.
In individual emergency situations, when the parent has notified school leadership of the specific nature of the emergency.
Where otherwise required by law, including federal, state, or local mandates.
Important Note to Families
Validus has no desire to suspend students or require parent meetings over devices. This policy is simple:
Phones are secured in pouches.
Other devices must stay out of sight.
Headphones may not be worn during the day.
If a student cannot avoid repeated violations, families are strongly encouraged to keep the device at home to prevent further incidents.
Parent Communication in the Event of an Emergency
We understand that emergencies can arise and families may need to contact their child during the school day. Since all student phones will be secured in pouches and unavailable for use, we have established a clear communication protocol for reaching your child:
Primary Contact:
Please call the Validus Main Office at 718-466-4000, then press extension 0. A staff member will receive your call and promptly relay the message to your child or bring them to the main office if necessary.
Secondary Contact:
If you are unable to reach someone at the main office, please contact our Parent Coordinator, Ms. Iraida Perez, at 347-930-2719.
Tertiary Contact:
If you cannot reach Ms. Perez, you may also contact our Dean, Mr. William Hart, at 646-702-2117.
One of these adults will ensure that your concerns are communicated to your child in a timely manner.
If you have attempted all of the above contacts and are still unable to get through, please email Principal Jonathan Clayton directly at jclayton@schools.nyc.gov to share your concern.
This system is in place to ensure student safety and clear communication while maintaining a phone-free learning environment.