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Without a statewide edict regarding cell phone use in schools, Warren County district board members broached the topic last month. At the July meeting, members discussed several reasons driving the proposal, including classroom distractions, excessive screen time, the effects of social media on student mental health and the challenge teachers face in keeping students focused during instructional time.
In Harrisburg, officials have the item on the radar, passing a bill on a bipartisan vote to restrict cell phone use in state schools in June. According to the bill, students would be required to secure their phones in a way that prevents access until the end of the day, with exceptions for certain emergency and medical needs approved by school administrators.
House Bill 1814 now moves to the state Senate for consideration.
"Our children need this bill," said Rep. Mandy Steele said of Allegheny County. "It's taken a lot of hard work to get this bill to this point, but it's been worth the effort. Research shows that unfettered access to devices is harming our children, and many educators tell me this bill is desperately needed. Governor Shapiro has urged the General Assembly to send him a bill banning cell phones in schools, and I urge the Senate to send this bill to his desk for the benefit of our children."
Nearly 40 states currently restrict cell phone use in schools, according to Education Week. Twenty-nine states enforce a full "bell-to-bell" ban, also known as an "away for a day" policy.
Those who responded to our weekly web poll, at timesobserver.com, also agree with a restriction. Eighty-eight percent responded to the question with a yes, while 12% said no.
This week's poll question: Do you agree with having school vaccination data online?