Overview

• The statewide prohibition now requires K–12 students to keep personal devices inaccessible on school grounds, with instruction continuing on school-issued laptops and Chromebooks.
• Districts implemented written policies for day one, with high schools deploying Yondr pouches that unlock at dismissal and younger grades using lockboxes, classroom caddies or secure lockers.
• New York City schools will give families a working number answered by a live staffer for messages to students, and will send texts or emails to parents during emergencies.
• At Roosevelt High School on Long Island, students locked phones in Yondr pouches, teachers reported fewer attention distractions, and lunchtime conversations were face to face.
• Roosevelt officials acknowledged release mechanisms can be bought online and said they are watching for misuse, while students raised concerns about having no phone backup during Chromebook problems and exemptions remain for instruction, medical needs and emergencies.