Governor Kathy Hochul's Cell-Phone Ban Kicks Off in New York City's Schools

Scenes from the first day of phoneless school in NYC.

As New York State's school cell-phone ban, championed by Governor Kathy Hochul, goes into effect, students and parents alike are feeling the impact in New York City's schools.

The controversial ban, which prohibits students from using their phones during school hours, has faced pushback from students and parents who argue that phones are essential for safety and communication. However, the ban has also garnered support from those who believe that phones are a distraction in the classroom.

Many students expressed frustration and confusion on the ban's first day, with some even attempting to sneak their phones into school. "I don't understand why we can't use our phones during lunch or breaks," said high school student Jamie Johnson. "It's not like we're using them during class."

While some schools have implemented phone storage systems, others are relying on students to simply leave their phones at home. This has raised concerns about unequal access and the potential for students to miss important messages or emergencies.

"We understand the concerns about safety and communication, but we also believe that phones can be a major distraction in the classroom," Governor Hochul stated in a press release. "We are committed to finding a balance and creating a safe and focused learning environment for our students."

Originally reported by Curbed.

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