Cellphones
Learn more about cellphones in K-12 schools—whether they are being banned, used as instructional tools, or something in between
Which States Ban or Restrict Cellphones in Schools?
See which states are requiring cellphone restrictions or bans in schools.
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Smartphones and social media are ever present with today’s students. Join this conversation on navigating the challenges and tailoring policy.
School & District Management
Hall Passes Go Digital to Complement Cellphone Restrictions
Digital hall passes have limited the time students spend outside of class. Administrators say they've worked well with cellphone limits.
Ed-Tech Policy
Video
What Makes an Effective School Cellphone Policy? An Overview
EdWeek reporter Lauraine Langreo looks at how school cellphone policies are being addressed at the school, district, and state level.
Classroom Technology
What's In, What's Out for AI, Cellphones, Cybersecurity, and Other Ed-Tech Stuff
Education technology changes quickly, and so do the trends that define how educators and students use it. What's ahead for 2025?
Education
The Education Word of 2024 Is ...
Educators, policymakers, and parents all zeroed in on students' tech use in 2024, which prompted this year's winner.
Classroom Technology
Cellphones in the Classroom: The Year’s Top 5 Stories
The devices distract students from learning, disrupt sleep, and can harm mental health.
Ed-Tech Policy
Ed. Dept. Recommends These 3 Principles to Develop School Cellphone Policies
Cellphone policies should be developed in consultation with students, teachers, and parents, Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said.
Ed-Tech Policy
Should Schools Have Cellphone Restrictions for Teachers Too?
Schools expect teachers to model responsible cellphone use.
Classroom Technology
Opinion
Why School Cellphone Bans Are a Bad Idea
We cannot ignore the powerful relationship between students and their phones—and what they mean for equity in our most challenged schools.
Classroom Technology
From Our Research Center
How Strict Are School Cellphone Policies?
New survey data show that schools are trying a variety of approaches to curb students’ cellphone use.
Classroom Technology
From Our Research Center
How Students Are Dodging Cellphone Restrictions
Schools’ efforts to restrict cellphone use have set up a battle of wits between teachers and students.
Classroom Technology
From Our Research Center
'Mom Is Texting': Teachers Say Parents Are a Daily Distraction During Class
Many parents feel the need to be in constant contact with their children.
Teaching
Opinion
The Hidden Benefits of Distraction in the Classroom
Distraction can support healthy emotional regulation—but only when properly understood. Here’s what teachers need to know.
Ed-Tech Policy
Here's When Most Americans Think Cellphones Should Be Banned
Banning cellphones during class is very popular with American adults.