NYSUT joins governor to announce cellphone restrictions in schools

Today in Guilderland Central School District, NYSUT President Melinda Person joined Gov. Kathy Hochul as the governor announced a proposal to create distraction-free learning environments across New York.

As part of the governor's 2025-26 executive budget, Hochul is proposing $13.5 million for school districts to implement bell-to-bell restrictions on student cellphones and other smart devices, with approved exceptions that include management of a student's healthcare, emergency events, and translation services. Each school district would be required to adopt a written policy that includes methods for on-site storage where students can keep their devices during the school day.

"Today marks a pivotal step in our push to create distraction-free learning environments, ensuring our schools are sanctuaries for learning, growth and genuine connection," said NYSUT President Melinda Person. "This movement is growing larger and stronger every day, and has brought together parents, teachers, law enforcement, and local officials who all recognize the crucial importance of giving children a school day free from the pressures of social media and other distractions. I want to thank Gov. Hochul for keeping student mental health a top priority, and for her clear dedication to the success and well-being of the next generation."

Under the governor's proposal, districts would be required to put locally developed policies into action by Sept.1, 2025.  

As educators, administrators, school boards and parents work to identify solutions that best fit their school communities, NYSUT is hosting important conversations across the state to explore the impact of cellphones, social media and technology on children, schools and learning.

Learn more about our regional Disconnected conferences and join us at an event near you.