Governor Kathy Hochul met with school leaders, parents, and students from the Hudson Valley to discuss the upcoming implementation of bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions in schools this fall. The roundtable included representatives from the Enlarged City School District of Middletown and Orange-Ulster BOCES, both of which have already finalized their policies for distraction-free learning environments.
Governor Hochul stated, “Our kids succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling — and that’s why schools across New York State will be ready to implement bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions this fall. We’re continuing to provide the resources and support to ensure that every school finalizes and publishes their distraction-free policy in the coming days.”
Nearly 1,000 public school districts, charter schools, and BOCES have submitted their distraction-free policies to state education officials. This accounts for about 90 percent of all districts and schools required by the new statewide mandate. The remaining institutions are expected to finalize their policies at upcoming board meetings scheduled for August.
Assemblymember Paula Elaine Kay commented on the benefits of these measures: “Distraction free learning has been proven to have positive impacts on students and their school experience. I’m proud to join Governor Hochul, Superintendent Amy Creeden, and Orange-Ulster BOCES to promote environments that reduce anxiety and bullying, while improving educational outcomes.”
Deborah Heppes, Chief Operating Officer of Orange-Ulster BOCES, added: “Thank you to Governor Hochul for working to ensure every student has the opportunity to learn without the constant distraction of cell phones, notifications, and the outside world. Reducing phone use during the day is a simple change that will have a big impact on student well-being. With support for implementation and a thoughtful approach, this transition will help students succeed socially, emotionally, and academically.”
Edwin Estrada, Board President of Enlarged City School District of Middletown Board of Education said: “By working together with state leaders, educators, parents, and students, we’ve developed a policy that puts learning first. This is about creating environments where focus comes naturally, interactions are genuine, and every student has the best chance to excel.”
Superintendent Amy Creeden remarked: “Classrooms work best when students are fully engaged in learning, not pulled away by constant notifications. This policy is about giving our students the time and space to focus, connect with peers face-to-face, and thrive academically. Thank you to Governor Hochul for making this initiative a statewide policy so all students have the opportunity to excel this academic year.”
The Distraction-Free Schools law requires K-12 districts across New York State to prohibit unsanctioned use of smartphones throughout the entire school day starting in fall 2025. Schools must develop plans for storing devices during school hours but can choose solutions suited for their communities. Funding totaling $13.5 million is available for schools needing assistance with storage solutions.
Schools must also provide ways for parents to contact children during emergencies or as needed throughout the day. Teachers, parents, and students are required participants in developing local policies; discipline related to violations must avoid inequity.
The law allows exceptions for simple cellphones without internet access or devices provided by schools as part of lesson plans. Additional exemptions exist for medical needs or where required by an Individualized Education Program (IEP), academic purposes such as translation or family caregiving responsibilities.
Governor Hochul’s decision followed feedback gathered during a listening tour with teachers, parents, and students statewide. Her report concluded that smartphones distract from learning but removing them does not compromise safety; instead it supports mental health among both staff and pupils.
Schools are encouraged not only to enforce device restrictions but also strengthen engagement through extracurricular activities like clubs or sports.
