NEW YORK, NY — New York City public schools are preparing for a major policy shift this September as a statewide cellphone ban—backed by Governor Kathy Hochul and NYC Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos—goes into effect. Under the new rule, students will be prohibited from using internet-enabled devices from the first bell to the last, including during recess, lunch, and passing periods.
The “bell-to-bell” ban applies to smartphones, smartwatches, earbuds, and tablets across all public, charter, and BOCES schools. It is part of a broader initiative to curb classroom distractions, reduce social media dependency, and improve academic performance.
“We are committed to restoring focus and face-to-face interaction in our classrooms,” Hochul said at a joint briefing with Aviles-Ramos, noting that statewide reading and math scores have hit 20-year lows. “This is not a punishment—it’s a reset.”
Districts must submit their implementation plans to the state by August 1. In New York City, the Panel for Educational Policy is scheduled to vote on the proposed enforcement policy on July 23. While the city already has a discretionary cellphone policy, the new mandate will standardize enforcement across its 1,800 schools.
To support the rollout, Governor Hochul announced $13.5 million in state funding, with an additional $4 million earmarked specifically for New York City. Combined with the city’s own $25 million budget allocation, NYC schools will receive $29 million in total to purchase storage solutions such as Yondr pouches, lockers, or classroom bins.
Students with medical needs, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), or family caregiving responsibilities may receive exemptions. Non-smartphones without internet capability will still be permitted.
Early pilots in Albany and Schenectady schools used lock pouches over the summer to test the logistics ahead of the fall rollout. Local educators reported fewer behavioral issues and improved class engagement.
However, some educators and parent groups have voiced concerns over implementation costs and emergency communication. Chancellor Aviles-Ramos acknowledged the challenges, noting that while the goal is equitable, “we need more time, training, and funding to ensure consistent, safe application.”
Despite concerns, supporters say the move reflects a growing national consensus that technology overuse in schools may hinder—not help—student development.
