by Natalie Kucko

Roughly 20 percent of New York schools missed the state’s deadline to submit plans for the upcoming cell phone ban in public schools, according to the Governor’s office.

About 200 schools across New York failed to provide plans to the state in time for the August 1 deadline. School districts were required to detail storage policies, exceptions, and consequences for violations.

“The most important thing to know is they will not have access to their phones throughout the entire school day, that is what the law says,” said Eamonn Scanlon, director of community impact for The Children’s Agenda.

Many districts across the Rochester area are requiring middle and high school students to keep their phones stored in their lockers. For some teachers, phones have served as a major distraction during instruction.

“My husband works with kids who are in long term suspension. A lot of times while he’s trying to work with them, they’re so busy texting their friends that they’re not getting the points of the lessons,” said Robin Wagstrom-Arnone of Rochester.

A spokesperson for the Governor’s office tells News 8 the plans already submitted by districts are currently under review.

School administrators are considering exceptions to the ban. This includes for various medical conditions with a doctor’s note, students who need translation services, or for educational purposes through IEPs.

“What parents should look out for is — are their students in need of some special accommodation where they might need access to a cell phone? And to really review those policies because there are exceptions,” said Scanlon.

“I think this is one of the better things that Governor Hochul has done. I think she’s recognizing the needs of the community. I think she’s recognizing the harm this is to children and the detriment it is to their ability to learn and socialize appropriately,” said Katie Walter of Rochester.

The state’s law takes effect this coming school year. A comprehensive list of policies shared by local school districts can be found here.

Original article here: https://www.rochesterfirst.com/news/education/20-percent-of-new-york-schools-miss-state-deadline-for-phone-policy-submissions/