The recent ban on cellphones in New York classrooms seems to be having a positive impact.
That’s according to New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
Hochul said new survey results show the “distraction-free schools” law is already making a noticeable difference for students. The law also positively impacts teachers across New York.
The governor’s office surveyed school administrators in November. They received more than 350 responses. These responses came from districts that adopted bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions under the new law.
- 92 Percent reported that their transition to a distraction-free policy went smoothly.
- 83 percent reported that their schools are experiencing more positive classroom environments. They have also observed better student engagement since implementing a distraction-free policy.
- 75 percent reported that implementing a distraction-free policy is improving their ability to teach effectively.
The governor’s office quoted an unidentified district administrator in Western New York who said, “High school teachers shared that students’ responses to literature are deeper. Responses are more meaningful.” They see students actually reading. Students are not just looking for Cliff Notes or quick answers. They are interacting with text at a deeper level.”
This is the first year the cellphone restrictions were put in place for all public schools in New York.
