Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that a recent survey indicates positive outcomes from New York’s new distraction-free schools law, which restricts smartphone use in classrooms. The survey, conducted by the Governor’s Office in November, gathered feedback from over 350 school administrators who have implemented bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions as part of the initiative.
Governor Hochul stated, “Our kids are finding greater success in the classroom when they’re focused on learning, not scrolling. This year, I was proud to champion a statewide distraction-free schools initiative, working hand-in-hand with New York teachers, students, and parents to create a policy that works for each community across our state. These survey results are indicative of that effort, illustrating the effectiveness of our tailored approach to phone-free schools, and offer a glimpse of the success to come for our students.”
According to the survey results:
– 92 percent of respondents said their transition to a distraction-free policy went smoothly.
– 83 percent reported improved classroom environments and better student engagement since implementing the policy.
– 75 percent indicated an improvement in their ability to teach effectively.
Feedback from school leaders across different regions supported these findings. A principal in Central New York noted that there were “zero issues with students trying to use their phones in school,” while a superintendent in Hudson Valley described the rollout as “very well planned and communicated.” Administrators also highlighted increased student interaction and deeper engagement during classes and recess.
State Senator Shelley B. Mayer commented on the results: “As we enter December, we have early feedback surrounding the bell-to-bell ban on cell phones in classrooms, and the Governor’s survey results are consistent with what I am hearing from school leaders, students, parents and teachers. School districts have implemented plans that respect students, parents, and teachers and achieve the goals of reducing distractions and increasing socialization among students. I thank the Governor and school leaders, NYSUT, School Boards, students, and parents across the state for their diligent work to make the implementation a success.”
State Senator John Liu added: “This data should hang up all doubt about taking cell phones out of schools from bell to bell. As cell phones become more involved into everyday life, we’re only now beginning to understand how our overreliance on this new technology can be harmful to our young people, especially when it comes to social media. Making sure our kids are able to learn without the persistent distractions from cell phones will keep our kids focused, strengthen their critical thinking skills, and allow them to fully engage with their teachers, classmates and the world around them.”
Assemblymember John T. McDonald III expressed his support: “Distraction free classrooms are already making a difference in schools across our region, and this survey highlights the importance of working together to build on that momentum. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul for her commitment to creating learning environments where students can succeed and our teachers are respected. I believe this effort will have a lasting impact for generations to follow.”
The legislation establishing statewide standards for distraction-free environments was included in New York’s FY2026 budget after being advanced by Governor Hochul. With its passage,New York becamethe most populous state with such comprehensive restrictions on smartphone use during school hours.
