Sioux Falls, SD – South Dakota Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Dusty Johnson says if elected, he’ll push for a statewide ban on student cell phone use during instructional time in K-12 schools.
Johnson says the policy is needed to improve academic performance and reduce distractions. “We must be laser focused on student achievement,” Johnson said. “Getting cell phones out of classrooms will move us in the right direction. Removing the constant temptation, distraction, and hidden dangers of cell phones will better prepare our students to compete and win.”
South Dakota is one of 17 states that has not taken statewide action on the issue. Johnson says as governor, he would work with school districts to implement policies restricting cell phone use during class, while leaving decisions about exemptions and enforcement up to local officials.
The congressman pointed to research showing support for such measures. A 2024 Pew Research Center survey found that 72% of U.S. high school teachers view cell phones as a major classroom distraction. Another study showed a 5% increase in test scores when cell phone bans were in place.
“Numerous school districts in South Dakota have led by example, and it’s time for us to implement their best practices statewide,” Johnson said.
