Smartphones are being blamed for attention issues, poor grades, bullying and mental health issues for kids in schools. The New York State Teachers Union, the Council of School Superintendents, the state PTA and other school administrators are convening to explore the impact of phones, social media and technology on kids.

Earlier this month, Gov. Kathy Hochul said meetings like Friday's NYSUT conference will make things clearer for a phone ban decision.

"I feel even more committed than I did at the beginning of this process," the governor said. "After all the stories I've heard from frustrated teachers, anxious parents, and teenagers who are asking us to help save them from themselves."

Hochul hopes the meeting will offer specifics on a plan. Pouches, drop boxes and total elimination of phones have all been discussed.

One group in attendance, though, says there is not a consensus of all 700-plus state superintendents and educators in favor of a school phone ban. The New York State Council of School Superintendents wants more discussion.

"It is not just a school issue. It is a life issue. And something we hear from superintendents is there is a role for schools to play for responsible use," said Robert Lowry, the state Council of School Superintendents deputy director.

"Presumably, there will have to be some sorts of exemptions for students that have health issues or disabilities, or work responsibilities or responsibilities taking care of younger siblings after school," he said.

He adds there are several ways for students to easily circumvent a phone ban, and it's unclear what enforcement looks like under a ban.