School Policies & Regulations

1. Students are permitted to bring the following electronic items to school:
   
   1. cell phones;
   2. laptops, tablets, iPads and other similar computing devices (“computing devices”); and
   3. portable music and entertainment systems (such as iPods, MP3 players, PSP and Nintendo DS).
2. Cell phones and portable music and entertainment systems may not be turned on or used during the administration of any school quiz, test or examination.
3. Computing devices may not be turned on or used during the administration of any school quiz, test or examination, except where such use has been explicitly authorized by the school or is contained in an Individualized Education Program or Section 504 Accommodation Plan.
4. Cell phones, computing devices and portable music and entertainment systems may not be turned on or used during school fire drills or other emergency preparedness exercises.
5. Cell phones, computing devices, and portable music and entertainment systems may not be used in locker rooms or bathrooms.

At NEST+m, we believe that the structured integration of technology into the classroom experience can enrich and empower student learning. Our laptop carts, library media space, and computer labs allow teachers to integrate technology into instruction in ways that are meaningful and equitable for all students. Therefore, it is our expectation that student personal cell phones and electronic devices are put away at all times during classroom instruction unless a teacher provides explicit approval for their use.

During the school day, from 8:20am-2:50pm, students will follow these Guidelines:

Grades 6-12 students are permitted to use electronic devices ONLY in designated areas or during their lunch period. Designated areas include:

• Cafeteria 
• Main Courtyard/Rear Courtyard during their lunch periods.
• Students may use cell phones in any Office with the authorization of a staff member. 
• Students may use cell phones in classes, including field trips, only with the explicit  permission of the teacher or an administrator 

Grades K-5 Students are NOT permitted to use electronic devices at ANY TIME during the school day.

• Students will keep cell phones turned off and out of sight in their lockers or backpacks when  not in designated areas listed above or during lunch. 
• Headphones and earpods may not be used at anytime unless specified by an IEP or 504 plan
• Students are never allowed to use cell phones or electronic devices in locker rooms, bathrooms, staircases, the auditorium or outside of classrooms. 
• Cell phones, computing devices and portable music and entertainment systems may not be turned on or used during school fire drills or other emergency preparedness exercises.  
• Students may not record, film, photograph, stream or broadcast anywhere in the building using cell  phones or other electronic devices without permission from an administrator or teacher.
• Use of cell phones or electronic devices for bullying, harassment or academic dishonesty (including  cheating, plagiarism or unauthorized collaboration) may result in disciplinary action as specified by the school's Academic Honesty Policy and the New York City Department of Education Discipline Code. 
• Cell phones and electronic devices used in violation of these policies will be confiscated.   

What happens if devices are used in violation of these policies?
The device will be confiscated and parents will be contacted. Confiscated devices will be returned to students at the end of the day in Room 319.
For repeated offenses, a parent or guardian must come to school to retrieve confiscated devices. Cell phones can be picked up in Room 319. 

• Refusal to comply with the confiscation of any device is considered insubordination and will result in further disciplinary action, including possible suspension.  
• Students may use personal laptops when appropriate during class time. If students are using non approved programs or websites they will no longer be allowed to use their personal laptops in school.
• Students are responsible for maintaining the safety and security of their electronic devices while at  school.

What items are considered electronic devices?
Cell phones, smart watches, video gaming devices, digital communication devices, headphones, earpods, bluetooth speakers, bluetooth devices.

Adopted June 21, 2016
As New York City’s K-12 citywide gifted and talented school, NEST+m has students who are members of a community of learners that spans from kindergartners to 12th graders. NEST+m students are expected to dress in a manner that is respectful toward our K-12 learning environment. In keeping with this philosophy, the NEST+m School Leadership Team supports the accompanying dress code (which applies to all grades, unless specifically noted):

• Students in grades K-8 are to wear a solid-colored upper garment (e.g. shirt, dress, sweater, sweatshirt) with the NEST+m insignia and/or brand.
• Closed-toe shoes (preferably with a rubber sole) must be worn by students in grades K-5.
• During Physical Education classes, students are expected to wear sneakers. In grades 6-12, during Physical Education classes, students are expected to wear an athletic t-shirt or sweatshirt, as well as athletic shorts or sweatpants.
• Clothing that degrades religion, race, or sexuality and clothing that promotes alcohol, drug use or offensive language is prohibited. Any attire that features words or images that violate the Department of Education’s Respect for All Initiative will not be permitted.
• Undergarments are not to be visible (e.g. pants are to be worn at the waist).
• Clothing may not be transparent (sheer) unless it is worn in combination with other garments that are not transparent.
• Tops and bottoms of outer garments must meet and should reasonably cover skin and not expose midriff or back. Strapless tops are not be worn.
• Skirts, shorts or other garments covering the lower body are to reach the fingertips of the extended arm.
• Religious head coverings are welcome. Headwear such as hats, visors, do-rags, bandannas and hoods worn on the head (e.g. from sweaters or sweatshirts) are prohibited.
• Students whose attire is not aligned with this dress code will be asked to speak with the Dean of Students or a member of the administrative team. The Principal or designee will make the final determination of questions of student attire. Students whose attire is not aligned with this dress code will be provided with school-issued attire.
• Read the Chancellors Regulations A-665 regarding the Department of Education’s voluntary uniform policy.

Please visit our Dress Code webpage to find out how to purchase school logo branded merchandise.