Staff Report / June 28, 2025
New York schools will ban student smartphone use during the entire school day starting fall 2025.
In a sweeping move aimed at reshaping student life and classroom culture, New York will become the largest state in the U.S. to ban smartphones and internet-enabled devices during the full duration of the school day, beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year.
Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement on Friday, June 27, stating that all public school districts must adopt and publicly post a “distraction-free” policy by August 1. The directive requires that student devices remain out of reach “from bell to bell,” with exceptions only for medical conditions and approved learning accommodations.
“This marks the end of an era for classroom distractions in New York,” said Hochul. “We’re taking bold steps to give our children back their focus, their connection to peers, and ultimately, their childhood. Our mission is clear: deliver the best possible learning environment across the state.”
The policy is the result of extensive consultation with teachers’ unions, school administrators, PTA representatives, and child welfare advocates, many of whom have voiced support for limiting device use to improve student focus and well-being.
Under the new guidelines, districts may implement their own methods to secure devices—such as using lockable pouches, designated lockers, or other secure storage solutions. Schools will still maintain landlines and office communication channels for urgent parent contact.
Supporters of the policy say the ban will help address rising concerns about social media’s impact on teen mental health, reduce incidents of cyberbullying, and encourage greater engagement in face-to-face learning. However, some civil liberties groups have voiced concerns over potential restrictions on communication between students and families.
Districts that fail to meet the August 1 deadline may face state intervention or risk losing access to certain funding streams, the governor’s office confirmed.
With the first bell of the new school year just weeks away, education leaders across the state are working to ensure that New York’s classrooms are ready to embrace a new, distraction-free chapter.
