The Sayville Union Free School District Board of Education convened on July 29, 2025, to discuss significant changes in school policy, particularly regarding the newly mandated cell phone ban and adjustments to the English Regents exam schedule.

The New York State cell phone policy requires students to keep their phones stored away from the start to the end of the school day. This shift has prompted the district to implement a structured approach to ensure compliance while minimizing disruption. The administration plans to communicate these changes to families through an FAQ posted on the district's website and via parent notifications in August. To facilitate this transition, high school students will be encouraged to use lockers, which have not been a standard practice in recent years. Locker days are scheduled for late August to help students acclimate to this new requirement.

Concerns were raised during the meeting about the feasibility of students using lockers, especially for seniors who have not utilized them for years. Board members discussed the logistical challenges of students accessing their lockers between classes and the potential for delays in getting to extracurricular activities. The administration acknowledged these concerns and emphasized that the policy would be revisited in December to assess its effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.

In addition to the cell phone policy, the board discussed a proposal to move the timing of the English Regents exam for eleventh graders from June to January. This change aims to reduce the testing burden on students during the busy end-of-year period and allows for a retake opportunity within the same academic year if needed. The administration expressed confidence that students would be adequately prepared for the January exam, as they have been developing the necessary skills since earlier grades.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the district's proactive approach to adapting to state mandates while considering the needs and concerns of students and families. The board's commitment to revisiting policies and making adjustments based on feedback reflects a responsive governance style aimed at fostering a supportive educational environment. As the school year approaches, the district is poised to navigate these changes with careful planning and community engagement.