ALBANY, N.Y. — New York State launched a website where you can look up your school district’s cellphone ban policy.
The websites contains the policies of more than 1,050 districts in New York State. You can look up your district’s policy at this link.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the “bell-to-bell” cellphone as a major component it to her Fiscal Year 2026 Executive Budget. $13.5 million was set aside for district to aid them in their implementation of the ban.
Many districts opted to use Yondr bags; a specialized pouch that locks your devices away and can only be reopened with a certain. Other districts simply ordered students to keep their phone in their lockers.
Governor Kath Hochul said the ban should keep classrooms distraction free and help students focus in school.
“Our kids succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling and that’s why schools across New York will be ready to implement bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions this fall,” Governor Hochul said. “As we look ahead to the start of the school year, communication is key and our new online resource is making it easier for parents and students to review their school’s plan.”
Governor Hochul ordered school districts to have their policy submitted to by Aug. 1. As of Thursday, 96% of districts in New York State submitted their plan.
Districts were also required to find a way to have parents be able to contact their students when necessary.