Global Schools Consider Mobile Phone Bans

In response to growing concerns about the impact of cell phone use on student mental health and classroom distractions, several U.S. states and international entities are implementing or considering bans on cell phones in schools. California Governor Gavin Newsom has urged school districts to restrict smartphone use, and South Carolina has included a ban in its state budget. Schools in Missouri's Stockton District will use Yonder Pouches to enforce their ban, and Virginia's upcoming policy mandates no cell phone use during school hours from K-12, with final guidance expected by September 16. In Scotland, headteachers are empowered to ban mobile phones to tackle behavioral issues, though a formal nationwide ban has not been implemented.