California Gov. Gavin Newsom is urging schools across the state to restrict students’ cellphone usage in classrooms, he said in a letter to schools.
Los Angeles Unified School District — the second largest district in the U.S. — and Santa Barbara Unified have already implemented restrictions on the use of cellphones in schools.
In 2019, Newsom signed a bill into law granting districts the authority to regulate the use of the devices during school hours.
High school students hold cellphones during a class lesson.
STOCK PHOTO/Adobe Stock
“Excessive smartphone use among youth is linked to increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. A recent Pew Research Center survey found that 72% of high school and 33% of middle school teachers report cell phone distractions as a major problem,” Newsom wrote in the letter.
“Combined with the U.S. Surgeon General’s warning about the risks of social media, it is urgent to provide reasonable guardrails for smartphone use in schools,” the letter said.
Newsom also argued the reducing the use of phones in class leads to improved concentration, better academic outcomes and enhanced social interactions.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks at the opening ceremony for Panda Ridge, the new exhibit at the San Diego Zoo, Aug. 8, 2024, in San Diego.
Derrick Tuskan/AP
The push for limited cellphone usage in schools comes amid concerns from public health leaders that social media platforms are contributing to a mental health crisis among young people. In June, Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy called for a warning label to be added to social media platforms stating that social media usage can be associated with significant mental health harms for adolescents.
Virginia also announced it will restrict cellphone use in public K-12 schools. Restrictions in that state are set to go into effect starting 2025.
California Governor Gavin Newsom recently made a recommendation that has sparked a debate among educators, parents, and students alike. Newsom suggested limiting cellphone use in classrooms in an effort to reduce distractions and improve student focus.
The use of cellphones in classrooms has become a common practice in schools across the country. Students use their phones for a variety of reasons, such as taking notes, accessing educational apps, and communicating with classmates. However, the constant presence of cellphones can also be a major distraction, leading to decreased academic performance and disrupted learning environments.
Governor Newsom’s recommendation comes at a time when concerns about the impact of technology on students’ mental health and academic success are on the rise. Studies have shown that excessive cellphone use can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and poor sleep quality among young people. By limiting cellphone use in classrooms, Newsom hopes to create a more focused and productive learning environment for students.
While some educators and parents support Newsom’s recommendation, others have raised concerns about the practicality of enforcing such a policy. Many schools already have policies in place regarding cellphone use, but enforcing these policies can be challenging. Additionally, some argue that cellphones can be valuable tools for learning and communication, and that banning them entirely could hinder students’ ability to access important information.
Despite these challenges, Governor Newsom’s recommendation has sparked an important conversation about the role of technology in education. As schools continue to grapple with the impact of cellphones on student learning and well-being, it is crucial for educators, parents, and policymakers to work together to find a balance that allows students to benefit from technology while also minimizing its negative effects.
In the end, the decision to limit cellphone use in classrooms will ultimately be up to individual schools and districts. However, Governor Newsom’s recommendation serves as a reminder of the importance of creating a healthy and productive learning environment for all students. By addressing the issue of cellphone use in classrooms, we can help ensure that students are able to reach their full potential academically and emotionally.
