New New York State Law Mandates Distraction-Free Learning in Schools by 2026

The Monroe-Woodbury Board of Education held a regular meeting on July 23, 2025, where they discussed the implementation of a new statewide mandate aimed at enhancing student mental health and success. This law, set to take effect at the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year, requires all public and charter schools in New York to adopt a "distraction-free" policy, which includes a ban on internet-enabled personal devices during instructional hours.

The policy encompasses a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches, and other internet-connected accessories. To support schools in this transition, the state has allocated $13.5 million, with Monroe-Woodbury expected to receive approximately $37,000 to aid in the implementation of the necessary storage solutions for these devices.

In preparation for this mandate, the Monroe-Woodbury district formed a "Distraction-Free Learning Committee" in January, comprising a diverse group of stakeholders, including teachers, administrators, parents, and students. This committee was divided into three subcommittees focused on elementary, middle, and high school levels, allowing for targeted feedback and research on effective solutions.

The committee conducted extensive research, drawing from resources provided by the New York State School Board Association and other educational organizations. They also visited local districts that have successfully implemented similar policies to gather insights and best practices.

The overarching goal of this initiative is to reduce distractions in the classroom, thereby improving student well-being and academic performance. The board emphasized the importance of equitable disciplinary practices under this new policy, ensuring that all students are treated fairly.

As the district moves forward with policy adoption, they will follow the outlined reimbursement process to secure state funding. The meeting underscored the commitment of Monroe-Woodbury to foster a supportive learning environment that prioritizes student mental health and academic success.