📵 Phones Off, Minds On

Oregon recently became the first state to launch a bell-to-bell cell phone ban in all public schools. The rule means students can’t use phones from the first bell to the last—no texting during passing periods, no TikTok at lunch, no sneaky scroll under the desk.

Supporters say it could boost grades, reduce stress, and help students reconnect face-to-face. Critics argue it’s too strict and hard to enforce, especially when students might need phones to contact family, coaches, or jobs.

Youth reporters from schools across Oregon found that the new policy plays out very differently depending on the school and teacher. Some use locking phone pouches or “cell hotels.” Others leave enforcement up to teachers, and some students still find creative workarounds (fake phones, anyone?).

Some teachers say they’ve already noticed more participation and better focus in class. Others worry it takes too much time to police phones or that students should instead learn responsible phone use, not just avoid it altogether.

Should schools enforce strict phone bans, or teach students how to use their devices responsibly instead?

Your Task:

1. Consider: What are the potential benefits of a phone-free school day? What are the drawbacks?

2. Imagine you are on the school's policy committee. You get to design your school's new phone policy. You have two choices

• Full bell-to-bell ban: phones locked away or stored all day

• Smart Use policy - phones allowed at certain times, with clear expectations

3. Create a 30-second pitch, explaining

• What your policy looks like

• Why it's the best choice for students and teachers

• How you'd make sure it's fair and effective

4. Include a slogan or hashtag (like #PhonesDowFocusUp) to promote your idea!