Is Your Child's Future at Risk? Shocking Debate: Should Schools Ban Smartphones Now?

By Mary Welander
State Rep., D-114

Mary Welander

As the legislative session kicks off, it’s a time for lawmakers to hone in on policies that will shape our communities. State Representative Mary Welander (D-114) emphasizes that while much groundwork has already been laid, the next two months will be pivotal in determining which proposals make it to the forefront. Engaging with stakeholders—including parents, teachers, and students—will be crucial as discussions evolve.

One pressing topic under consideration by the Education Committee is the use of cellphones in schools. With increasing evidence that excessive smartphone use can negatively impact young children and teens, the call for stricter regulations gains urgency. Issues such as distractions during class and exposure to harmful online content are significant concerns for educators and parents alike.

Last year, the legislature requested that each school district formulate its own cellphone policy tailored to local needs. Responses have varied widely—from outright bans requiring phones to remain in backpacks to more flexible rules allowing for controlled use in specific contexts, such as digital literacy classes. Some schools have implemented systems where students secure their phones in organizers upon entering classrooms. However, the diverse approaches have resulted in inconsistent enforcement and varying levels of success.

This leads to the proposal of a “bell to bell” cellphone ban, which would prohibit the use of all smartphones and smart devices, including watches, from the beginning of the school day until dismissal, with the exception of certain circumstances such as educational needs and health-related emergencies. Welander, a mother of three teenagers, acknowledges the challenges of managing technology use in her household and expresses mixed feelings about the proposed ban.

While she believes a ban could enhance focus and learning, she also voices concerns from a parental perspective. In situations where safety is paramount, having the ability to reach her children is non-negotiable. The broader implications of enforcing such a ban raise additional questions: how would schools implement and manage it, and what resources would be required? Would this necessitate investments in specialized storage solutions for devices, such as Yondr pouches? With already tight school budgets, Welander wonders if funds would be better allocated to support educators directly.

As discussions continue, Welander is reaching out to her constituents for input. She urges parents and community members to share their thoughts on whether the potential benefits of a statewide cellphone policy outweigh the costs and logistical challenges associated with it. “What do you think?” she asks. “How would you address this issue?” Feedback can be sent directly to her at [email protected].

The conversation surrounding cellphone use in schools is part of a larger national dialogue about technology's role in education and its impact on student well-being. As educators, parents, and lawmakers navigate these challenges, finding a balanced approach that prioritizes learning while ensuring safety will be crucial for the future of our schools.