NEW YORK STATE, (WBNG) \u2014 Results are starting to come in from schools across New York State regarding the statewide smartphone ban inside public schools, many of which have seen better learning and engagement from students.<\/p>\n
In an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul\u2019s office on Monday, Dec. 1, 83% of surveyed schools across the state reported more positive classrooms and better student engagement than before the ban.<\/p>\n
More than 350 schools that implemented the smartphone ban in 2025 responded to a statewide survey conducted by the Governor\u2019s office. <\/p>\n
Of the results, 92% of schools reported a smooth transition to the cellphone ban.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis has been a great initiative,\u201d said a principal in the Finger Lakes region. \u201cThe state mandate, coupled with district autonomy over how to implement \u2014 i.e., storage method and consequences for infraction, is important,” they said. <\/p>\n
The smartphone ban is showing more positive classroom environments and better engagement. <\/p>\n
\u201cThis has been a game changer,\u201d a Superintendent from the Southern Tier said. \u201cStudents have their heads up and not down looking at their phones,\u201d they said. \u201cStudents are having conversations with each other! I observe in a lot of classrooms, and there is a noticeable difference in student engagement,\u201d they said. <\/p>\n
On the teaching aspect of things, 75% of schools reported that the policy has improved their ability to teach effectively. <\/p>\n
\u201cHigh school teachers shared that students\u2019 responses to literature are deeper and more meaningful,\u201d said a district administrator from Western New York. \u201cThey are seeing students actually reading and not just looking for Cliff Notes or quick answers,\u201d they said. \u201cThey are interacting with text at a deeper level,\u201d they said. <\/p>\n
In May, Governor Hochul announced that New York would become the largest state in the country with a statewide restriction on smartphones in schools. <\/p>\n
The bell-to-bell policy prohibits unsanctioned use of smartphones or other internet-enabled devices in K-12 schools for the entire school day. <\/p>\n
Schools were able to adopt and implement their own plans for storing the smartphones. Many schools opted for specialized pouches that secure the phone via a magnet. The phones remain in the student\u2019s possession throughout the day, but prevent them from being used. <\/p>\n
Schools were required by the state to provide parents with a way to contact their children during the day when necessary.<\/p>\n
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