Approximately 80% Reported Positive Outcomes Including Better Student Engagement and Improved Social Connections
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Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the results of a survey to collect feedback from nearly 600 educators statewide at the conclusion of New York’s first phone-free school year — and the numbers speak for themselves.
Teachers overwhelmingly report that without smartphone distractions their students are more active in class discussion, more engaged with their peers, and more focused on their assignments.
Schools across New York State implemented one of the nation’s strongest phone-free policies at the start of the school year in September 2025, in line with the requirements of the distraction-free schools law that was enacted by Governor Hochul in May 2025.
“I successfully fought for New York schools to go phone-free because our kids succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling – and these survey results show our nation-leading policy is working,”said Governor Hochul.“Teachers overwhelmingly report that without constant smartphone distractions, students are more focused on learning and more engaged with their peers.
These are results we can all be proud of, and I congratulate New York students and educators as we near the end of an outstanding school year.”
New York State Education Commissioner Betty A.
Rosa said, “Every student deserves a learning environment that is engaging and designed to support their success.
Providing access to schools that support student focus helps ensure that students can fully participate in high-quality instruction, build meaningful connections with their peers and educators, and develop the knowledge and skills they need for the future.
We remain committed to supporting efforts that foster positive school climates where teaching and learning remain at the center of the educational experience.”
New York City Public Schools Chief of Safety Mark Rampersant said, “When we implemented this policy in September, our goal was clear: to reduce distractions during the school day while continuing to meet every student’s needs. Sitting down today with the Governor, students, and staff at J.H.S. 383 Philippa Schuyler, I was again struck by what I’ve been hearing from schools across the city all year long: it’s working.
Teachers report that students are more focused and engaged in the classroom, and students are connecting with one another throughout the day, away from their devices.
While there is still more to learn, this first year has shown that school environments with fewer distractions and more opportunities for connection are having a positive impact on our students.”
“I successfully fought for New York schools to go phone-free because our kids succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling – and these survey results show our nation-leading policy is working,”
End-of-Year Survey Results
The Governor’s Office received 585 total responses, representing all regions across the state, grade levels, and roles in schools, to its end-of-year survey on distraction-free learning.
Some key takeaways from the results included
Overwhelmingly positive reception:80% said that implementing a phone-free policy has delivered positive results for their school.
Classroom behavior and engagement:76% reported positive changes in classroom behavior, such as improved attention, respect for peers, and following directions, and 76% said student engagement increased. The most commonly observed forms of engagement were more active participation in discussions, improved peer collaboration, and better focus on assignments.
Educators reported improved effectiveness:75% said their ability to teach effectively improved.
Social connections improved, bullying declined:80% saw student social connections improve. 60% reported a decline in bullying and cyberbullying incidents.
More specific positive feedback included:
Teacher in the Capital Region:“Great improvement. Stick to your beliefs on this one. It is working. Kids are actually socializing, talking, discussing and it is really good to see.”
School support staff in Western New York:“It is just so wonderful seeing kids being kids again.
Without the draw to the cell phone, the students are engaging with each other again.
It is so heartwarming to watch”
School Administrator on Long Island:“This has taught students to focus better and to be without their phones.
It has encouraged more collaboration during free time”
A Look Back on Mid-Year Survey Results
These results are in keeping with the positive feedback the Governor’s office received from itsmid-year surveyof more than 350 school administrators statewide on distraction-free learning.
More than 90% of administrators reported a smooth transition to phone-free classrooms and greater than 80% reported better student engagement.
Governor Hochul’s Distraction-Free Learning Initiative
Recognizing the necessity of ensuring safe and productive learning environments for students and educators, Governor Hochul advanced legislation to create a statewide standard for distraction-free school environments, secured its passage in the FY2026 budget, and signed it into law in May 2025.
New York’s statewide bell-to-bell restriction on smartphones is among the strongest in the nation.