Welcome Back to the 2025–2026 School Year!
Dear Students & Families,
I want to warmly welcome you back for another exciting year at Staten Island Tech. Every September gives us a chance to begin again with fresh energy, and this year, more than ever, we’ll be starting a new chapter — together.
Change is in the air, but as Seagulls, we take to the air with confidence and courage each day. With updates to our Academic Policy and the new NYS/NYC Cell Phone & Electronic Device Law, there will be noticeable shifts in how we learn, connect, and spend our time during the day. While the adjustment won’t be easy at first, I truly believe this will be a transformative journey for our students, families, and staff.
📚 Academic Policy Highlights
✔️ New Grading Scale (65–100): Student averages now reflect performance more precisely.
✔️ Clear Lateness & Make-Up Rules: Defined timelines and accountability for missed work.
✔️ Testing Day Reshuffle: Please check subject schedules carefully.
✔️ “Everything Counts” Still Stands: Responsibility remains the foundation of Tech culture.
These changes ensure that effort, preparation, and consistency are accurately recognized.
📵 Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy
✨ Less Screen. More Seen. More Tech Together. ✨
In alignment with Education Law §2803 and Chancellor’s Regulation A-413, all NYS schools — including Staten Island Tech — are now required to prohibit personal internet-enabled devices during the school day.
Here’s what this looks like for us:
🔒 Storage Pouches: Phones, smartwatches, laptops and tablets stored from arrival until 2:47 PM dismissal.
💻 Laptops/Tablets: Allowed only in class, and only for instruction, with teacher direction/supervision.
📞 Emergencies: Families can call the main office; students may access phones in the Parent Coordinator’s Office.
⚠️ Progressive Discipline: Repeated infractions may impact Habits of Success grades and NHS eligibility.
🎒 Lost/Damaged Pouch: Replacement available for $15 at the SO Store.
🌱 Why This Matters
This is bigger than a rule change — it’s a culture shift.
- Less distraction → more focus on academics.
- Fewer screens → more authentic human connection.
- Stronger boundaries → healthier habits for the future.
Yes, the adjustment will feel challenging. But it’s also a chance to build resilience, responsibility, and respect — traits that will serve our students long after graduation.
💬 From the Principal
We’re not just enforcing a policy; we’re embarking on a journey. One where our students look up from their screens and truly see each other. One where classroom time is more productive, friendships deepen, and our community thrives.
It won’t be perfect at first, but it will be worth it. And we will take every step together.
Here’s to a powerful, transformative year ahead.
With gratitude and excitement,
Mark Erlenwein
Principal, Staten Island Technical High School
👉 Full Cell Phone & Device Policy: bit.ly/SITHSPhonePolicy
Full 2025-2026 Academic Policy: bit.ly/SITHSacpol2526 / 点击这里查看中文翻译
📞 Questions?
Contact Ms. Barbara Malenfant, Parent Coordinator — (718) 667-3222 ext. 1171 | [email protected]
