Thursday, June 12, 2025
New York state public schools will implement a “bell to bell” cellphone ban starting in the 2025–26 school year, following a tentative agreement between Gov. Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers.
The ban is part of the state’s $254 billion fiscal 2026 budget, which was finalized last month, but as of press time, not approved.
Schools will no longer allow smartphones and other electronic devices during classes or free periods such as lunch and study hall.
Debbi Sheinin, president of the Hewlett-Woodmere Board of Education, said that while the board has not yet discussed the ban, she believes it will benefit students both in and out of the classroom.
“While I’m not speaking on behalf of the Board of Education, I personally support the decision to ban cell phones in schools,” Sheinin said. “In my view, phones can be a significant source of distraction during the school day and often interfere with students’ ability to stay present and engaged. I also think they can contribute to unnecessary anxiety and disruptions, both socially and academically.”
The budget allocates roughly $13.5 million for schools to purchase storage options for cellphones, including cubbies, pouches or lockers.
The plan would make the state the largest in the country with a “bell to bell” cellphone ban.
Hochul said the ban will reduce classroom distractions and that limiting young students’ exposure to addictive technology will support better mental health.
“From parents and teachers, to social justice and law enforcement leaders, New Yorkers agree that our young people succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling,” Gov. Hochul said in a statement on the governor’s website. “Using the insights from my statewide listening tour, this comprehensive proposal to restrict smartphone use in schools will ensure that New York’s statewide standard for distraction-free learning delivers the best results for our kids and educators.”
Hochul gave an overview of the proposal in late January, which also mentioned prohibiting other devices, such as smartwatches. She also discussed exceptions to the ban for students who might require a device to manage a medical condition.
The ban also requires schools to ensure parents can reach their children during the day — a key concern among critics.
State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick agreed with Hochul that cellphones can be a distraction and expressed her support for the schoolwide ban.
“As a parent and policymaker, I believe we all share a common goal: ensuring our schools are safe, focused environments where students can thrive,” Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick said. “While I understand that smartphones have become an everyday part of life, I support reasonable restrictions on cell phone use during the school day.”
Have an opinion on the state cellphone ban? Send a letter to mberman@liherald.com.
