Mayor Adams announces passage of new cellphone, electronic device policy for upcoming school year

The new policy states that starting in the upcoming school year, “personal internet-enabled devices — such as smartphones, tablets, and smart watches — cannot be used during the school day by students.”

Matt Trapani

Jul 24, 2025, 2:36 AM

Updated yesterday

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Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Public School offices announced updated policies surrounding internet-enabled devices in the classroom.
The new policy states that starting in the upcoming school year, “personal internet-enabled devices — such as smartphones, tablets, and smart watches — cannot be used during the school day by students.”
“As part of the revised policy, schools will be required to provide at least one method for families to reach their children during the school day in the case of an emergency, provide a secure way to store devices, and annually provide staff and families with information about school-specific policies,” officials announced in a statement.
Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos says that exceptions will be made for some students who need devices for medical reasons, are responsible for the care of a family member or several other exceptions.
More information about the policy can be found on the city’s website.