The Kansas Task Force on Student Screen Time suggests that students should hand over their cell phones, headphones, and smartwatches.
On Tuesday, the task force will present its recommendations to the Kansas State Board of Education (KSBE). Among the recommendations is a bell-to-bell policy, which would prohibit students from using their cell phones during the entire school day, including lunch and passing periods.
Tuesday’s recommendations to the Kansas State Board of Education (KSBE) aim to assist Kansas school districts in developing policies regarding the use of cell phones. It is important to note that these recommendations are not intended to be a statewide mandate. It is worth mentioning that certain classrooms and schools in Kansas already have existing cell phone bans in place, implemented by teachers and principals.
Cell phones have posed a significant challenge for educators in the classroom. According to a study conducted by Pew Research, over 70% of high school teachers in 2024 acknowledged that cell phones are a major distraction during class.
According to Brian Houghton, the co-chair of the task force and the 7-12 Principal at Fredonia Schools, cell phones have a negative impact on both students’ learning abilities and teachers’ teaching abilities.
The Kansas Task Force, consisting of 36 members including educators, parents, and students, references the Pew Research study in its recommendations.
Eliminating distractions is crucial for creating an optimal learning environment, according to Lori Barnes, a parent member of the task force and a board member of the Arkansas City School District.
Barnes expressed his frustration with the prevalent habit of people being absorbed in their phones, comparing it to a scenario where a child is eager to engage in conversation with someone in the lunchroom, but that person is too engrossed in their cellphone.
The task force will not only offer screen time policy recommendations, but also provide advice on addressing mental health concerns related to screen time. Additionally, they will suggest ways for parents to oversee district-owned devices.
Houghton, the principal of Fredonia, emphasized the importance of giving schools the freedom and flexibility to create their own policies with the input of their local administration, school boards, communities, and teachers.
Educators should encourage students to take breaks from screens and teach them how to use technology in a more meaningful way. The main objective is to ensure that students remain focused on their learning and are not constantly distracted by their screens.
