New York Becomes The Largest State to Enforce Statewide K-12 Cellphone Ban
- Techprotect Editor
- Aug 11
- 2 min read
Albany, NY — New York State is set to implement a bell-to-bell ban on smartphones and other internet-enabled personal devices in K–12 schools statewide, beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year. The initiative, anchored in Governor Hochul’s “More Learning, Less Scrolling” campaign and codified in the FY 2026 state budget, aims to reduce distractions and bolster student mental health and engagement during instructional hours
How the Policy Works
Scope & Timing: The ban prohibits unsanctioned use of internet-enabled devices—including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and more—from “bell to bell,” encompassing classroom time, lunch, recess, homeroom, and transitions throughout the school day.
Implementation Deadline: All public, charter, and BOCES schools must submit their written smartphone‑restriction plans by August 1, 2025, with about 900 of 1,100 districts having done so as of early August.
Flexibility for Districts: Schools can choose their method—locked pouches, classroom lockboxes, personal lockers, or storing phones at home—but must ensure secure, equitable enforcement.
Funding Support: The state budget allocates $13.5 million for storage solutions, translating to roughly $10 per student, with some larger schools (e.g., Brooklyn Tech) receiving upwards of $100,000 for implementation
Why Now: Lawmakers cite rising concerns over social media addiction, declines in focus and wellbeing, and classroom disruptions. With many already on board, the statewide mandate levels the playing field for districts that struggled to enforce individual bans.
Exemptions & Safety Measures: Students may carry simple phones without internet capabilities or school-issued devices for learning. Exemptions are allowed for medical needs, language or special education accommodations (IEPs), translation services, caregiving, or emergencies. Schools must also provide reliable methods for parents to contact children during the day
“Our young people succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling – and that’s why New York will be ready to implement bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions on the first day of school.” Said by Governor Kathy Hochul and he points out this policy is about restoring focus and creating a learning environment where every child can thrive.
Techprotectus : Turning Policy Into Practice
As New York schools prepare for full compliance with the new cellphone ban, TechProtectus offers multiple solutions to fit each district’s enforcement strategy and budget. Schools can choose between:
Velcro Closure Pouches — Loud, two-tone Velcro that provides an audible and visual alert when opened, ensuring quick teacher monitoring while keeping costs low.
Lockable Pouches — A secure mechanical locking system for districts that require maximum control and tamper resistance, while still allowing rapid emergency access.
Both versions feature 100% signal blocking to prevent calls, texts, notifications, GPS tracking, and other wireless communication during the school day. They are customizable with school logos, colors, and ID windows, making them easy to integrate into existing operations.
For demos, quotes, or more info, please contact us at info@techprotectus.com