COLUMBUS, Ohio – A recent report from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce reveals that schools throughout Ohio are adopting policies regulating cell phone use well ahead of the deadline required by a new state law.
More than 60% of districts and community schools have implemented cell phone restriction measures, as detailed in House Bill 250, which mandates that all Ohio schools establish policies to minimize student cell phone usage by July 1, 2025, according to a news release.
“We know cell phones in schools are harmful for students, both in terms of their performance in the classroom and their mental health,” Gov. Mike DeWine said in the release. “School leaders who have enacted policies limiting cell phones have already reported an improved focus on academics and, just as importantly, better social connections.”
The survey conducted by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (DEW) garnered a high response rate, with 98% of districts and community schools participating. More than 40% of schools that responded to the survey reported policies that disallow cell phone use during standard school hours, while 45% reported specific times of approved cell phone use. Other districts reported implementing policies that vary by grade.
“I traveled the state this year to hear from school administrators, students and parents about implementing cell phone policies in schools, and the response was unanimous. You improve student academic performance and reduce bullying and disciplinary issues when you get phones out of the classroom,” Lt. Gov. John Husted said in the release.
DEW has provided a model cell phone policy and a comprehensive toolkit to assist schools in implementing effective policies. The toolkit offers guidance on creating engaging learning environments, promoting healthy digital habits, and setting appropriate expectations for screen time.
This story was written with the assistance of AI.
