Across the United States, schools are increasingly banning smartphones during class to tackle growing issues of distraction and cyberbullying. This trend reflects a nationwide push to create more focused learning environments by reducing smartphone-related interruptions. As the debate heats up, some are calling for a federal ban to replace the current mix of state regulations.
Bipartisan Movement for Smartphone Restrictions
Smartphones have come under fire for their role in classroom distractions. A recent Pew Research survey revealed that over 70% of high school teachers see smartphone use as a significant problem. In response, eight states have enacted or are considering new laws to limit phone use during school hours.
These restrictions are driven by more than just the misuse of apps like TikTok and Instagram. Concerns extend to serious issues like cyberbullying, sexual exploitation, and the recording of violent incidents. By reducing phone use, states aim to minimize these harmful behaviors and enhance student focus.
California’s Anticipated Role and Local Initiatives
California, home to tech giant Apple, is poised to introduce its own smartphone ban in schools. This move is part of a broader national discussion about implementing a unified federal policy to standardize regulations across states. Some private institutions, such as Georgetown Day School in Washington, D.C., have already taken a firm stance, advocating for the complete removal of phones from educational settings.
Orlando, Florida, has adopted one of the strictest approaches, banning smartphones for the entire school day and blocking social media access on school Wi-Fi. This strict policy mirrors a global trend, with about 25% of countries having implemented similar bans.
Diverse Policies Across States
In the U.S., states like Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, and South Carolina have already implemented or are in the process of enforcing smartphone bans. The specifics vary: some schools permit phone use during breaks, while others require phones to be stored in lockers or designated areas throughout the day.
Teachers have reported benefits from these bans, including improved student concentration and fewer incidents of phone-related bullying and conflicts.
Challenges with Broader Technology Distractions
Despite the focus on smartphones, technology remains a broader issue. Many students use school-issued laptops and tablets, which can also be sources of distraction. Access to sites like YouTube and online games can undermine learning, and cyberbullying has been documented on these devices as well.
Bark, a service that monitors school accounts, reported over 8.5 million cases of cyberbullying on Google Docs since 2019. Microsoft and Google have introduced tools to help schools manage and monitor digital interactions, but concerns persist.
New State Laws and Funding for Phone Bans
Following Florida’s lead, several states have introduced new laws to limit smartphone use during school hours. Indiana, Louisiana, and South Carolina are among those implementing or considering such policies.
To support these measures, states have allocated funding for tools like lockable phone pouches. Pennsylvania has invested millions in grants for such equipment, while Delaware has dedicated $250,000 for testing lockable pouches.
Virginia’s Governor, Glenn Youngkin, recently ordered state agencies to develop “cellphone-free” education policies, with new laws in Minnesota and Ohio also aiming to restrict cellphone use in schools.
Schools Implement New Rules as Year Begins
As the academic year starts, schools are quickly rolling out new cellphone policies. Sabine Parish in Louisiana has informed families that phones and smartwatches must be stored in lockers or turned off during class. Similarly, Franklin Township in Indiana has banned personal cellphones, laptops, and gaming consoles during lessons.
Many schools now use designated holders or lockable bags to manage phones, and some districts have introduced “phone jail” cabinets to store devices confiscated for rule violations.
Balancing Concerns: Parents and Students Weigh In
While many parents support cellphone bans, the issue remains contentious. A National Parents Union survey found that while 70% of parents agree on banning phones during class, over half believe students should have access during breaks.
Students also express concerns, arguing that phones are essential for note-taking, photographing assignments, and staying in touch with friends. Critics worry that bans could disproportionately affect students with after-school jobs or caregiving responsibilities.
