Zeros

School Communication Device Restrictions: A Complex Security Debate The 2025-2026 school year has brought sweeping changes to student device policies across multiple states. Ohio now requires all school districts to adopt policies prohibiting cell phone use during instructional time by January 1, 2026, while New York has become the largest state to implement statewide bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions in K-12 schools. NYC Public Schools has expanded its ban to include internet-enabled devices such as tablets and smartwatches. These policies emerge during a period of heightened concern about school safety and emergency communication . The debate centers on a fundamental question: How do schools balance educational focus with emergency preparedness and family communication needs? The Emergency Communication Perspective Parents and students raise legitimate concerns about device restrictions in light of ongoing security challenges in educational environme...