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New York Teen Tech Council
Join the movement putting teens at the center of distraction-free schools — nominate a teen leader or step up to lead events and phone free fun beyond the classroom.
What is the New York Teen Tech Council?
New York is leading the way in youth-driven digital innovation with the New York State #HalfTheStory Teen Tech Council. This year-long initiative brings teens to the table to help implement the state's phone-free schools initiative and build a culture of digital wellness that extends beyond the classroom.
#HalfTheStory is the leading youth NGO on a mission to empower the next generation’s relationship with technology — making digital wellness accessible to every young person on the planet and putting teens at the center of the movement.
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Why Join?
- Be part of a historic statewide movement to improve student wellbeing and digital citizenship
- Work alongside elected leaders, educators, and peers to design real-world solutions
- Help schools implement phone-free policies in ways that actually work for students
- Create innovative programs like screen-free proms, digital wellness workshops, and peer mentorship initiatives
- Get exclusive access to screen-free events and activities across New York State
- Build leadership skills, make your voice heard, and inspire change in your community
- Bring the Social Media U digital wellness program to your school
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Timeline
Throughout the year, teens will participate in monthly meetings, brainstorm phone-free implementation strategies, develop screen-free event campaigns, and work directly with schools.
- Applications & nominations due: September 20, 2025
- Cohort announced: Early October
- Programming begins: Fall 2025
Ready to Lead?
Requirements
- Complete kick-off training on digital wellness and leadership strategies
- Attend 2 ongoing council meetings each semester to collaborate with fellow teen leaders
- Apply for grants to fund phone-free events and initiatives in your school
- Host events in your school to promote digital wellness and phone-free culture
- Participate in challenges and activities designed to promote digital wellness
- Share regular feedback on programs, policies, and what's working (or not) for students
- Commit to being an active voice for positive change in your school and community
Who Can Apply?
- Any high school teen in New York State (public or charter school)
- Teens who are creative, collaborative, and care about how tech impacts their peers
- Teachers & community members can also nominate outstanding students
Ready to Lead?
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Our Approach:
Four Game-Changing Pillars
Here's the thing: Distraction-free schools shouldn't just be about confiscating phones. It's actually an incredible opportunity to create something way better — a culture where digital wellness isn't a burden, but a gateway to deeper connections, creativity, and joy. We're talking about giving students, teachers, and families the tools to not just survive without their devices, but to create a shared culture of connection!
When we do it right, distraction-free schools transform from just another rule into a catalyst that helps entire school communities flourish.
Education
Empowerment
Community
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Ready to Lead?
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! If you know multiple teens who would be great leaders, feel free to submit separate nominations for each of them.
While this isn't a paid position, you'll gain valuable leadership experience, connect with like-minded peers statewide, and have the chance to create real change in your community. #HalfTheStory is a nonprofit that believes in empowering teens, and we'll provide grant applications for phone-free events so you can fund the initiatives you're passionate about.
We're looking for teens who are curious about digital wellness, care about their peers, and want to make a difference in their school community. You don't need to be a tech expert or have leadership experience — just passion for positive change and willingness to collaborate.
Plan for about 1 hour per month for meetings, plus time for any projects or events you choose to lead. We work around your school schedule and other commitments.
No! Participation is completely free, and council members can apply for grants to fund their own phone-free events and initiatives.
If you care about how technology affects you and your peers, you're qualified! We provide training and support to help you succeed.
