Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that her distraction-free schools law is showing significant results across New York State, according to a recent survey conducted by her office. The survey, distributed in November to school administrators who have implemented bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions, received over 350 responses from across the state.
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.”
The survey found that 92 percent of respondents reported a smooth transition to the new distraction-free policy. A principal from Central New York said: “It was a seamless transition. We have had zero issues with students trying to use their phones in school. The communication from the state first was great, and my district and school followed up. There was no pushback at all.” Another principal from the Finger Lakes noted: “This has been a great initiative. The state mandate coupled with district autonomy over how to implement — i.e., storage method and consequences for infraction — is important.” Administrators also reported strong support from staff and parents.
In addition, 83 percent observed more positive classroom environments and improved student engagement since implementing the policy. An assistant superintendent in the Southern Tier commented: “This has been a game changer. Students have their heads up and not down looking at their phones. Students are having conversations with each other! I observe in a lot of classrooms and there is a noticeable difference in student engagement.” Other administrators mentioned increased eye contact among students, more active participation during lunch and recess periods, as well as stronger interpersonal skills.
Furthermore, 75 percent indicated that teaching effectiveness had improved under the distraction-free policy. According to feedback from Western New York: “High school teachers shared that students’ responses to literature are deeper and more meaningful — they are seeing students actually reading and not just looking for Cliff Notes or quick answers.”
State Senator Shelley B. Mayer expressed support for the law’s impact: “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 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 commented: “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 gratefulto Governor Hochul for her commitmentto creating learning environments where students can succeedandour teachers arerespected.I believe this effort willhavea lasting impactfor generations tof ollow.”
The law establishing statewide standards for distraction-free learning environments was included as part of New York’s FY2026 budget package.New York is now recognized as beingthe most populousstatewith such restrictionsin place throughout its public schools.
