Addressing educators at the “Disconnected” conference hosted by New York State United Teachers, Governor Kathy Hochul called for measures to mitigate the negative effects of cell phones and social media in schools.
A recent NYSUT poll revealed that 80% of teachers believe these technologies hinder student learning. “We come in ready to teach, and we’re faced with our students being attached to their cell phones,” said NYSUT Executive Vice President Jamie Ciffone.
While some parents worry about not reaching their children during emergencies, Hochul noted that law enforcement advises against student cell phone use in such situations, as it may distract from safety protocols.
Earlier this year, she signed groundbreaking legislation to regulate social media algorithms targeting users under 18, aiming to protect children’s mental health from unsolicited content.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to news@fingerlakes1.com.