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It’s back-to-school time, and Superintendent Phil Potenziano shared what Brunswick School Department parents and students can expect from a return to classrooms next week.

Are there any changes in the academic calendar, school start times or bus routes students need to know about?

The first day of school varies based on grade, Potenziano wrote in an email to The Times Record. Pre-K, kindergarten and grades 3, 6 and 9 start on Sept. 2. Grades 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8 and 10-12 will have their first day on Sept. 3.

“We use a program called BusRight for our transportation system,” Potenziano said. “Parents are encouraged to access that program for up-to-date information. If parents have questions, please call our Transportation Department at 319-1904.”

Are there any changes in regard to student cellphone use or technology?

Potenziano shared a letter to Brunswick High School families from Principal Troy Henninger and Vice Principal Jacob Goldstone outlining the high school’s new cellphone procedure.

“After reviewing input from students, staff, and families, we’ve finalized a new procedure for the 2025–2026 school year that we believe will better support student well-being, academic focus, and consistency across classrooms,” the letter reads. “Research increasingly shows that excessive cell phone use can interfere with adolescent well-being and academic focus. We’re committed to working with families to set healthy, structured boundaries.”

Beginning this fall, students will place their phones in classroom caddies at the start of each class. Headphones must be put away and smartwatches can only be used as clocks. Students can have access to their phones before school, during lunch and passing time, and after school, the principals told parents.

They encouraged parents to have students leave their phone at home or in their vehicle or drop their phone off in the front office each day for secure storage.

“When students have trouble meeting expectations, we’ll respond with a progressive approach that includes support and clear communication,” the BHS administrators wrote. “We’ll begin the year by helping students adjust and ensuring staff are applying the rules consistently.”

Any other significant changes or developments in the district since last year?

There are several openings for school bus drivers in the school department, Potenziano wrote, encouraging those interested to apply.

“This is a shortage area that directly impacts our ability to safely drive students to and from school,” he wrote.

In addition, the department continues to work on its strategic plan, “with a focus on ensuring that Brunswick schools are welcoming, inclusive, and safe learning communities where all students are held to high expectations as they develop skills necessary to thrive in a diverse and ever-changing world,” Potenziano wrote.