I’m hearing palpable concern from parents regarding New York’s smartphone ban in schools, which takes effect when the new school year starts. What will the ban look like? Where will students’ smartphones be when they’re out of reach? Will there be accommodations for students with specific medical or educational needs? And, of course, how will parents and children reach each other in case of an emergency?

The questions are understandable. After all, this policy is new for families and public/charter schools in New York, which, as of this writing, joins 25 other states in implementing smartphone-free approaches. As we anticipate its impact, I hope both parents and students give these worthwhile policies a chance to succeed. A little bit of trust goes a long way toward school districts bei

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