D.C. would ban phones in public schools under new bill
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D.C. would ban smart phones in public schools under a new bill introduced Monday in the D.C. Council.
Why it matters: With English and math test scores sagging, lawmakers hope removing access to personal devices will improve education outcomes.
State of play: The new law, if passed, would prohibit students from using cell phones, gaming devices and smart watches during the school day.
- It would apply to public and charter schools, some of which have already taken steps to restrict or outright ban smartphones.
What they're saying: The phone-free proposal is also meant to help students socialize more between classes, instead of scrolling on screens, "which is an equally important part of human development at a young age," Council member Brooke Pinto, who introduced the legislation, tells Axios.
Zoom in: The leadership of D.C. Public Schools and some individual charter campuses would have the flexibility to customize strategies to enforce the standard.
- Methods could include secure storage rooms for devices or locked magnetic pouches.
By the numbers: Last year, only about one in three D.C. students met or exceeded expectations in English language arts and literacy, Pinto noted.
- About 30% of students hit the same mark in math.
- Standardized test scores saw a slight improvement last year from 2023, but are still far below pre-pandemic levels.
Between the lines: Pinto and five other lawmakers introduced the bill. With support from two more, it would pass the council.
- The proposal will get a public hearing and have the potential for tweaks before a final vote.
The fine print: Teachers could allow students to use tablet computers and laptops for classroom purposes.
- Exceptions can also be made during instructional time for students with disabilities.
- While DCPS currently doesn't have a blanket policy on cellphone use, they are banned in middle schools.
The big picture: School systems across the country are banning or limiting cellphone use at schools, as officials say they impact mental health and cause classroom disruptions.
- It's a hot topic for parents — some want to be able to reach their kids, others think it'll help them pay attention and socialize with their peers IRL, Axios D.C.'s Mimi Montgomery previously reported.
- Virginia and Maryland school districts have taken varying approaches to cracking down on phone use during instruction time.