New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has proposed restricting use of internet-connected phones, smartwatches and tablets during the school day to cut down on distractions and improve students’ mental health. Many Long Island educators and parents support limits on screen time, but some want school districts to set their own policies. Existing smartphone restrictions on Long Island tend to prohibit smartphones through eighth grade and allow limited use in high schools.Maura McDermott reports in NEWSDAY that the governor’s proposal, unveiled in January, aims to create “distraction-free” school days and improve students’ mental health. It comes as a growing body of research shows excessive screen time is harming kids’ ability to learn and their psychological well-being. In a research letter published yesterday in JAMA Pediatrics, researchers led by Lauren Hale of Stony Brook University found that teens spent an average of 1½ hours on their smartphones during school hours. Much of that time was spent internet browsing, text messaging, video streaming, listening to audio or using email or Instagram. “As a public health researcher and a mother of two middle schoolers, I am concerned that too many kids are missing out on both learning and in-person social opportunities during the school day by looking at their phones," stated Ms. Hale of S.B.U.Governor Hochul wants to allocate $13.5 million to help schools buy cubbies, pouches or other phone storage devices. The proposal requires lawmakers’ approval as part of negotiations over the NYS budget, which is due April 1. If approved, the policy would take effect this fall.***The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has invited the public to a meeting to discuss a multiyear habitat restoration project in response to impacts of the Southern pine beetle at Napeague State Park and Hither Hills State Park. Christopher Walsh reports on 27east.com that the meeting happens on Thursday, February 13 at 6 p.m. at Montauk Downs State Park, at 50 South Fairview Avenue. It will include a summary of already-completed emergency work and an overview of planned work for 2025 and beyond, addressing efforts to ensure the safety and sustainability of the park. Those attending will also learn about phased tree removal efforts, trail safety improvements and upcoming work to reduce wildfire fuel loads. Project highlights include creation of fuel breaks near residences adjacent to pitch pine forest; the cutting of dead trees along the Promised Land Trail and the Paumanok Path; and continued development and implementation of a restoration plan to support resilient habitats. The NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation will also discuss environmental considerations guiding the work, including compliance with federal protections for the Northern long-eared bat. Public input is encouraged, and officials will be available to answer questions. Those seeking more information about the meeting or the project can contact the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation at 631-321-3529.***Student artists at East Hampton High School have spent the last three months creating a mural of Ruby Bridges — an African American civil rights activist — displaying their creativity, teamwork, and passion for art. For the past three years, students in Margaret Zubarriain’s art club have worked in collaboration with the East End Arts Council to create an artistic piece honoring Martin Luther King Jr. This year’s group of young artists collectively decided to create a mural of Ruby Bridges after noticing they had yet to explore age as a focal point. Bradley Rodriguez reports on 27east.com that Bridges was one of the first African American girls to be integrated into the New Orleans Public School system. At the age of 6, Bridges was tormented and faced waves of racism. Despite the racism she...

Gov. Hochul proposes restriction on personal internet devices during school days