New York City, the largest school system in the U.S., is considering implementing a cellphone ban across its 1,600 schools starting in February. Principals have been briefed on the plan, which allows schools to devise their own strategies such as collecting phones at the start of the day or using Yondr pouches to store them. Despite potential costs for storage solutions and pouches, schools are not expecting additional budget allocations. Discussions with school leaders, led by Schools Chancellor David Banks, indicate strong support for a uniform citywide policy. The move follows concerns about cellphone distractions, equity issues, and impacts on student mental health, echoing similar actions in other large districts like Los Angeles.
