New York Governor Kathy Hochul is advocating for a complete ban on phones in schools, emphasizing the negative impact of these devices on students’ focus and safety.
The proposal comes after the Bethlehem Central School District successfully implemented a near-total ban on electronics, including iPhones, earbuds, and smartwatches. Prior to the ban, the school reported that students were often seen walking through the halls in near silence, entirely engrossed in their devices. In some cases, surveillance footage even captured students so distracted that they walked into walls or stumbled down stairs.
Governor Hochul, recognizing the potential dangers and distractions posed by smartphones, has voiced strong support for extending such a ban statewide. Although no formal legislation has been introduced, she has made clear her intention to address the issue, signaling a potential significant shift in school policies across New York.
As the debate over the role of technology in education continues, Hochul’s proposal is expected to spark discussions among educators, parents, and lawmakers about the balance between technological access and student well-being.