How Do You Feel About the New York School Cell Phone Ban?

What is The Bell-To-Bell Ban?

Earlier this summer, Governor Kathy Hochul announced an "Elimination to Distraction in New York Schools."

It's called the Bell to Bell program. According to press release from New York State at the start of the 2025 school year the state will require "bell-to-bell restrictions on smartphones in K-12 schools."

New York State explains that Governor Hochul created this initive "based on feedback from teachers, parents and students."

Hudson Valley Parents React to Bell To Bell Cell Phone Ban

With the school year just around the corner we asked Hudson Valley parents to share their opinion when it comes to having their students at school without access to their cell phones.

Reactions ranged every where from "Don't like it one bit" to "It's about time." Other parents dug a little deeper.

One parent tells us:

I went to school as smart phones were becoming a regular thing. Responsible kids managed to stay off of them in class. And teachers and staff were able to address students who were distracted by their devices. And it worked well. Communication about expectations in classrooms goes a long way.
Also in America, we’re unfortunately known for a certain type of emergency… where I think it is vital that a student be able to contact loved ones/emergency services.

Another parents writes:

I think it is great. However the state and districts shouldn't need to spend money on special pouches or lock boxes. Kids should keep them in their personal lockers or backpacks on do not disturb mode throughout the day. Kids that don't listen should be punished. Also it only applies to phones and personal devices that connect to the internet. If parents really feel their kid needs a way to communicate they can have an old-school flip phone or watch that only has call and text.

Some parents are against it and voiced their opinion telling us "I’m against it and instructed my child to have it on her."

Opinions seem to be split. However, one school administrator did let us know what would happen if students have phones at her school explaining the student will be taken to the main office and will have to surrender their phone. After school a parent or guardian will then have to pick it up.