Exclusive | New group launches push for cell phone ban in NY schools: Our kids well-being has collapsed

A new advocacy group armed with a hefty funding pot has launched a push to ban smart-phone use in New York’s schools.The group — Phone Free New York — has already raised six figures for its campaign to persuade Gov.Kathy Hochul and the state legislature to approve a law to bar mobile-phone usage during the school day, The Post has learned.Cell phones are a frequent distraction in classrooms, and too much screentime affects kids’ mental health, educators and parent advocates say.“Since the pandemic, social-media use has soared while our kids’ well-being has collapsed,” said Raj Goyle, founder of Phone Free New York.“Smartphone use in our schools has supercharged in-school violence and bullying, created an educational environment full of distraction and isolated our children from each other,” he said.“Schools should stimulate learning and social connections.

That’s why Phone Free New York is laser-focused on ensuring Albany takes action to protect our kids.”Hochul, who has said she will unveil a “statewide standard” on the issue in her executive budget plan Tuesday, welcomed the support from Phone Free New York.She conducted a “listening tour” last year regarding smart-phone abuse in the classroom.“From parent teacher associations to business and economic leaders, New Yorkers agree that young people succeed in the classroom when they’re learning and growing — not clicking and scrolling,” Hochul said.“Following my listening tour with students, parents, educators and other stakeholders, I look forward to advancing a new statewide standard for distraction-free schools as part of my budget proposal.”The state’s powerful teachers’ union — New York State United Teachers — backs a “phone-free” school policy.   At least eight other states — from liberal blue to conservative red — have enacted such bans, and proposals are being considered in more states this year.The states that have imposed restrictions on ...