State Senator Shelley Mayer and New York State United Teachers, (NYSUT) commented on the successes so far in schools across the state to the no cell phone policy for students during the school day.

“Good news now that school has been in effect for two months. We enacted a bell to bell cell phone ban. As you know, kids can’t have their cell phones or internet devices from the morning bell to the night bell. And kids say its made a difference already. Obviously, parents, teachers and schools thought it was great, but now we have kids saying it really makes a difference.

“That’s such a great success story for the Governor and those who fought for that,”said Sen. Mayer, Chair of the Senate Education Committee.

NYSUT’s release states, ‘The best start to a school year in a decade’: Educators hail early successes of distraction-free schools

Accounts from educators across New York released by NYSUT show overwhelming support for the state’s new distraction-free classroom policy that went into effect at the start of this school year.

In an online survey sent to members at the beginning of October, educators, aides and school staff across the state responded with stories of tangible, early gains in focus, engagement, and school climate.
89 percent said the new policies have already improved their school environment.

76 percent reported that students are more present and participative during lessons, strengthening both student-student and student-educator connections.

77 percent of educators said students’ social interactions are considerably more positive both in the classrooms and hallways.

From NYSUT President Melinda Person: “When students put down their phones, they pick up books — and build friendships. This survey shows that phone-free schools aren’t just improving academic outcomes; they’re rebuilding the human connections that make school a safe and vibrant place to grow.”
What they’re saying

“This was the best start to a school year I have had in over a decade. The kids are also realizing that this is good for them, socially and academically.” — Western New York educator

“Kids who were repeatedly failing last year said they are getting work done because they ‘have nothing else to do’ in study hall. I also have noticed an increase in hallway chatter, which is good.” — North Country educator

“They are engaging, playing games, playing music, reading books for pleasure; it’s so wonderful.” — New York City educator

“Take a simple interaction of greeting students at the door, now they at least acknowledge you instead of being able to ignore and hide; it is a small but powerful change.” — New York City educator

“Even though the kids aren’t compliant 100% of the time, the change has greatly improved the classroom environment, as well as reduced the amount of social media drama during school. Every state should do this!” — North Country educator

“I was fully expecting this to be a train wreck because I didn’t trust that admin would be able to stand up to parents and students who resisted. I am shocked at how well it’s gone. I have not personally seen one phone at an unauthorized time all year. I’ve never been so happy to be wrong.” — Western New York educator

“My high school juniors and seniors have been able to be children again. I have had to restock my LEGO supply so they can build, and they work together. It has been such a joy seeing them enjoy themselves in something other than phones.” — Hudson Valley educator