When students in the Hornell City School District return to school on September 5, they will do so without their cell phones. The district has implemented a complete phone ban during school hours to eliminate distractions and improve the learning environment.

School officials cited ongoing problems with students using their cellphones for non-educational purposes as the reason for the decision. Last year’s “red” and “green” zones, where limited cellphone use was allowed, have been replaced with a complete ban from 8:05 a.m. to 3:03 p.m.

The ban also applies to smartwatches, headphones and earphones. While the policy may be difficult to implement at first, Palotti said he was confident that students and staff will get used to the new rule.

The move coincides with broader discussions led by Gov. Kathy Hochul about reducing smartphone use in schools, but district officials say the decision was made independently.

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