Yonkers Public Schools has started to determine how it is going to implement the new state law about putting internet-enabled devices away from "bell to bell."
This new requirement will take effect in the 2025-26 school year and applies to all schools in public school districts, as well as charter schools and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES).
"I don't know if they should take it away," says Itzel Martinez, a student in Yonkers. ""I would usually use it for my safety."
The goal is to limit distractions in the classroom.
The state law allows schools to develop their own plans for storing smartphones during the day.
Yonkers Public Schools officials say they're looking at several options such as individual pouches, cubbies, locker storage or a storage container in the classroom.
"If we were to just go with a potential pouch option, the pouch is still with the kid. It's still put away," says Anibal Soler, Jr., Superintendent of Yonkers Public Schools. "We have to have board policy approved and we have to start talking about what it looks like here for us in Yonkers."
District officials say there would also be consequences for students who repeatedly break the rules and devices could be confiscated.
Parents are divided.
"Something needs to be done because phones are just really taking up too much of children's time," says parent Anna Perojo.
"It's definitely a major concern because of school shootings and everything like that," says parent Jasmin Dorsogna.
District officials say parents can always reach their kids during the school day by calling the main office.
District officials also addressed emergency situations.
"All the safety experts tell you they want you to execute your safety drills first," says Soler. "We want kids safe before we want kids worrying about calling their parent on the cellphone," says Soler.
Yonkers Public Schools plans to test out the policy during summer school before things are finalized.
