LICAB took a bold step forward in its advocacy efforts by hosting a press conference and Q&A session at Smithtown High School West to announce its support for making New York public schools smartphone-free from bell to bell.
The event marked a significant moment in the growing statewide conversation about student mental health, bullying prevention, and the role of digital distractions in school environments.
LICAB Executive Director Joe Salamone was joined by a panel of distinguished advocates and educators who each spoke passionately about the urgent need to protect students from the harmful effects of smartphone overuse and social media dependency during the school day:
- Dr. Mark Secaur, Superintendent, Smithtown Central School District
- Mr. Joseph Monastero, Superintendent, Cold Spring Harbor Central School District
- Mr. Daniel McCabe, Principal, Nesaquake Middle School
- Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, President & CEO, Family & Children’s Association
- Ms. Melissa Breitstein, Parent, Syosset School District
- Ms. Brynn Pinto, Senior, Syosset School District
Speakers highlighted the rising rates of anxiety, depression, and bullying linked to excessive phone use, and emphasized how phone-free policies can restore focus, improve in-person connections, and create safer, more supportive school climates.
“We’re not anti-technology—we’re pro-mental health,” said Salamone. “Removing smartphones from the school day is not about punishment; it’s about giving students a better chance to be present, engaged, and safe.”LICAB continues to champion legislative and local solutions to reduce bullying and strengthen mental health supports, and this initiative is a key part of that mission.
