School cellphone bans show mixed results in new study

Yes, but: "For academic achievement, average effects on test scores are consistently close to zero," the researchers wrote.

• And they found "little evidence" those policies affect attendance, attention in class or perceived online bullying.

Zoom in: Seattle Public Schools recently began requiring students in grades K-8 to put their phones away for the entire school day.

• High schoolers can have their phones out during passing periods and during lunch, but are restricted during class time.
• Washington state has not adopted statewide school cellphone limits.

The big picture: As of this year, roughly two-thirds of states have enacted legislation limiting student phone access, per the study.

• Nearly 5,000 schools use lockable phone pouches, according to the study.

Catch up quick: School cellphone bans gained bipartisan support over the past few years as concerns grew about worsening youth mental health and plunging test scores post-pandemic, the Washington Post reports.

• The restrictions are also popular among teachers.

The bottom line: Cellphone bans may still benefit students — even if they don't directly translate into higher test scores.