In the last two decades smartphones have become ubiquitous in society . They provide endless information, directions, allow easy communication, and offer infinitely more resources.
In 2025, phones are being eliminated from classrooms all over the United States. Over a dozen states have enforced a “bell-bell” law for phones in schools. This means that students will have to keep their phones in locked bags from the start of the day to the end, including lunch. These states include Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Vermont, and Virginia. This doesn’t include other states like Florida and Georgia that have restrictions by grade level.
Studies show that removing cellphones reduces overall distraction, improves social skills, and could help reduce mental stress caused by having phones. Although removing cellphones helps reduce general distractions, it also makes them that much more appealing.
We all know that teenagers want something more when it’s taken from them. Taking their most “prized possession” from them causes more students to turn to lying, hiding, and forming toxic relationships due to their need for technology. Allowing students to learn on their own how to manage cellphone use would be more beneficial for the future of the soon-to-be adults lives, specifically high school students.
Other pros of having phones in school include an extra level of safety, general communication, and helping students to learn how not to be dependent on their phones.
Having our phones on or near us gives another level of safety in situations where we may need it–such as lockdowns or other emergencies. During school hours, students may need to communicate with family or friends. In class time, this would be disruptive, but during bathroom breaks, lunch, etc, this shouldn’t be an issue.
Students need to learn how to manage time without their phones being a constant distraction. At home or at a workplace, there won’t be anyone forcing them to put their phones down. We live in a world where phones are everywhere. There’s truly no way to eliminate the usage. So, instead, we should be accepting it and teaching students how to get things done without it.
