Starting in September, Hornell High School students will be required to keep their cell phones in lockers during the school day, marking a shift to a complete ban on device use. The new policy aims to eliminate distractions and address social issues linked to smartphone use, according to school officials.
Previously, Hornell High had designated “red” and “green” zones for phone usage, but studies highlighting the negative impact of devices on academic engagement and social dynamics prompted the stricter approach. Phones, headphones, and earbuds must now be off and stored from 8:05 a.m. to 3:03 p.m., including lunch periods.
The move aligns with a broader push in New York, as Governor Kathy Hochul considers a statewide ban on smartphones in classrooms, citing their detrimental effects on students’ focus and learning environments.
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