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There is nothing wrong with schools dictating cell phone use for its students. In 2025, U.S. News & World Reports said at least two-thirds of the states had policies for the devices.
In Warren County, the school board this month came up with its own regulations. For older and more responsible students, there are certain restrictions while allowing use.
It's not the same for those in kindergarten to eighth grade. Those elementary and middle-age students are not allowed to use the electronics.
It makes sense.
According to the Institute of Education Science, "Teachers have reported that cell phone distraction is a major problem in the classroom ... and many schools have moved to ban cell phones for nonacademic purposes (National Center for Education Statistics, 2022). Students whose smartphones were physically removed during class had higher levels of course comprehension, lower levels of anxiety, and higher levels of mindfulness."
Even adults have limits with cell phones -- especially while on the job or while driving. In our weekly poll, "Do you agree with the county school board's policy to not allow phone or electronic device access for those in kindergarten to grade eight?" 88% said yes while 12% disagreed.
This week's poll, which can be found at timesobserver.com: Do you have growing concerns about risks with artificial intelligence?