Schools Propose Cellphone Limits to Reduce Distractions

Wake County Public Schools and other educational districts are proposing new policies to restrict cellphone use during school hours, aiming to create a more uniform approach and reduce distractions. The proposed policy would require phones to be off or silent throughout the day, with exceptions for emergencies and educational use, and allow high school students to use phones during non-instructional times if permitted by their school. Similar measures are being considered in other areas, such as D.C., where a proposal seeks to ban phones to improve student focus and learning. State legislative bills, like SB55 in North Carolina, are pushing for district-wide cellphone restrictions, reflecting a growing trend to address the disruptive nature of smartphones in education. The policies are supported by educators and families, but some parents express concern about maintaining communication with their children. As the debate continues, schools are considering different enforcement mechanisms, including the use of Yondr pouches to secure phones during the day.