Cellphones are set to be banned in New York schools during school hours starting next year. The new rule will begin in September and is part of the state’s 2026 budget plan. Governor Kathy Hochul announced this move as a way to help students stay focused in class instead of getting distracted by their phones.
What the Cellphone Ban Means for Students
The upcoming rule means students will not be allowed to use their mobile phones from the first bell in the morning to the last bell in the afternoon. This “bell-to-bell” ban is aimed at stopping distractions during class time. While the full state budget is still not officially approved, this part of it has already been agreed upon by state lawmakers.
Governor Hochul explained that each school will be able to decide how they want to enforce the rule. Some schools might use locked pouches to keep phones away during class. Others might choose different ways, but all schools must make sure students can still reach their parents in case of emergencies.
Funding to Support the Ban
To help schools put the ban in place, the state will give $13.5 million to schools across New York. This money can be used to buy storage pouches or create other ways to safely manage student phones. The goal is not to punish students but to help them concentrate better on their studies.
Governor Hochul said that New York will be the largest state to have a cellphone ban in schools. She also made a strong statement during her announcement: “No more memes instead of math. They’re now going to be focused.”
Public and Teacher Support
Many teachers and parents agree with the plan. Members of the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) joined Governor Hochul during her announcement to show their support. Surveys have also shown that most New York voters are in favour of the ban.
The state believes this decision will help improve student learning and reduce distractions in classrooms. In today’s world, where phones often pull students’ attention away from schoolwork, this rule could make a big difference.
Although details like how each school will store phones are still being worked out, one thing is clear: change is coming. From September next year, students will need to get used to a school day without their phones. The hope is that with fewer distractions, students will be more engaged and perform better in their studies.
This change could also set an example for other states to follow. If the policy works well in New York, other places might decide to introduce similar rules in the future.
