Kansas Task Force Recommends School Cell Phone Ban

A state task force in Kansas has recommended banning cell phones in schools from the first to the last bell to reduce distractions and encourage face-to-face communication among students. Simultaneously, the Shawnee Mission School District is considering updates to its cell phone policy, which currently restricts phone use during instructional time unless directed by staff, as part of its Strategic Plan. Meanwhile, Portland Public Schools are debating a district-wide cell phone policy after surveys showed mixed student opinions, with some citing improved focus and others expressing safety concerns without phones. The policy discussions in Portland align with recent findings from New South Wales, Australia, where a similar ban reportedly improved student focus, socializing, and learning outcomes.