📢 Petition: Say NO to the Cellphone Ban in New York Public Schools

To: Governor Kathy Hochul, Local Government Officials, New York State Department of Education, and School District Leaders.

We, the concerned parents, guardians, and community members of New York, strongly oppose the proposed ban on cellphones in our public schools. While we understand the intention behind limiting distractions in the classroom, this ban creates serious safety and communication risks that cannot be ignored.

📞 Parents Must Have Access to Their Children in Emergencies
In a world where crises can unfold in seconds, from lockdowns to medical emergencies, it is vital that parents and children are able to communicate instantly. Removing that lifeline is not only frightening—it is unacceptable.

🔒 School Shootings Are a Terrifying Reality!
God forbid a tragic event like a school shooting occurs—our children need the ability to call for help, alert loved ones, and protect themselves. Cellphones have saved lives in such situations. Banning them puts students at greater risk when every second counts.

🛑 A Ban Increases Risk of Exploitation and Trafficking!
In today’s world, removing phones doesn’t protect kids—it makes them vulnerable. With human trafficking and predatory behavior rising in our neighborhoods, predators are quick to identify children who are isolated or unreachable. A cellphone with location-tracking features is imperative for our children's safety in the event of a kidnapping or abduction. Parents must be able to locate their child in real time. Taking that ability away is reckless and dangerous.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parents Deserve a Say in School Safety
We are not asking for unrestricted use in the classroom. We are asking for the right to ensure our children's safety, mental well-being, and our ability to reach them when they need us most.

🗣️ Governor Kathy Hochul—You Do Not Have the Right to Cut Off Parents
Governor Hochul does not have the right to prevent parents from staying connected to their children during school hours. She has no right to make sweeping decisions that jeopardize our children’s safety. Parents—NOT politicians—should decide what’s best for their families. We demand a say in how our kids are protected.

We urge Government Leaders, The Department of Education and School Leaders to reconsider this policy. Do not trade discipline for danger. Work with parents, not against them.

✍️ Please sign this petition to keep our children connected, safe, and protected.