Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – Aug 21, 2024 – In today’s digital age, cell phones have become an integral part of our daily lives. However, the recent implementation of a “No Cell Phone” policy in several local schools has sparked debates among educators, parents, and students.

While the policy may seem restrictive, it could actually turn out to be great for everyone involved. The policy has been implemented to serve the vital purpose in promoting a more conducive learning environment and safeguarding the mental well-being of students, which has declined in recent years.

I believe we are only beginning to see the effects of social media and cell phone usage on children’s academic achievement, attention, and mental health, but I’ll break down a few of the reasons on why this policy is important to teens: 

  • One of the primary reasons for the implementation of the no cell phone policy is to minimize distractions during school hours. Numerous studies have shown that cell phones can be and have been a major source of distraction for students, leading to reduced attention in class and lower academic performance. The constant temptation to check social media platforms, send texts, or play games can significantly hinder students’ abilities to focus on their studies. By simply removing this distraction during the learning hours, schools aim to create an environment that is more focused and in which students can fully engage with their coursework and participate more actively in classroom discussions.
  • Beyond academic performance, a no cell phone policy also addresses concerns related to the mental health of students, which proves to be declining with excessive cell phone usage throughout the day. A systematic review published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) clearly highlighted the association between excessive smartphone use and mental health problems in adolescents. This review found that high levels of smartphone use was directly correlated with increased risks of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances among teens. By limiting cell phone use during school hours, the policy aims to reduce these risks and promote healthier habits among students, which leads to a better school environment and experience.
  • Another critical aspect of the no cell phone policy is its potential to encourage more face-to-face social interactions among students. In an era where digital communication often takes precedence over in-person conversations, schools have a responsibility to foster meaningful social connections. The absence of cell phones in the classroom and during breaks quite literally encourages students to engage with their peers directly, building stronger relationships and enhancing their social skills. These interactions are crucial for the development of empathy, communication skills, and teamwork—qualities that are essential for success both inside and outside the classroom.

While it may face resistance initially, the long-term benefits of this policy far outweigh the temporary inconveniences. As educators and parents, it is our responsibility to support such initiatives that prioritize the holistic development of our children. Some schools in Craighead County have already seen results from implementing this policy. 

Crystal Cline, Principal at Valley View High School, states that they have already had less discipline referrals and the attention of students has improved.

Principal of Buffalo Island Central Mark Hurst states that they have implemented this policy for six years with the goal always being to eliminate all distractions and focus on the goal of learning during the student’s time in the classroom”

Jonesboro and Westside took to Facebook to outline changes in their policies for this school year:

All schools in Craighead County do implement some type of cell phone policy in the classroom. Certain schools are classroom dependent on the enforcement of the policy, while some do physically confiscate the phones at the beginning of class to help reduce the risk of distractions.

Contact your child’s school and refer to the handbook as to what your child’s cell phone policy is.