The History of Phones in Schools: How We Got Here and Where We’re Going
As a former school superintendent, I've been reflecting on the evolution of cell phones and cell phone policies in our schools, and it’s a journey that mirrors our changing relationship with technology. To understand how we got here - and where we need to go - it helps to look back.
In the Beginning: A Straightforward Ban
When cell phones first started showing up in schools, the response was relatively straightforward: ban them. The intention was to minimize disruptions and keep the focus on learning. However, this approach didn't consider the potential for technology as a learning tool.
A Shift in Focus: Bring Your Own Device
A shift began to occur around 2010 when educational leaders like Bill Daggett advocated for leveraging student-owned devices to enhance learning. At that time, schools primarily used computer labs and carts to include technology in the curriculum. Allowing students to bring their own phones, tablets, and laptops seemed like a practical way to expand digital access. Policies stipulated student devices could only be used for educational purposes with the intention of leveraging technology for learning, while still controlling its use.
The Rise of Social Media and the Decline of Focus
Unfortunately, as experts have retrospectively recounted, this coincided with the rapid rise of social media, which became a major part of our students' lives. The introduction of platforms like Instagram in 2010, and the integration of back-facing cameras in phones, made social media an essential part of students' daily routines. Features designed to be addictive, such as heart-shaped “likes,” notifications, and the ability to repost content created a strong pull for students, making it really difficult to stay focused on other things.
Then came the pandemic. Remote learning further amplified this trend, as phones and social media became the primary window to the world for most people, especially children. Filters, avatars, and curated feeds created a constant pressure to perform, and a growing sense of isolation.
When students returned to school in 2022, the impact was clear. Parents and educators noted a significant increase in concerns about phone usage and its impact on learning and well-being. One teacher documented over 1,300 notifications during a single class period, demonstrating the extent of the distraction.
The mental health crisis among young people has become so acute that the former U.S. Surgeon General advocated for warning labels similar to those on alcohol and tobacco products to be associated with social media access. Research from experts like Jean Twenge and Jonathan Haidt, along with reports from Common Sense Media and Data & Society all point to the same conclusion: smartphones and social media are taking a toll on our kids.
The Phone-Free Movement: A New Way Forward
This brings us to the current movement toward phone-free schools, which differs significantly from a phone ban. Phone-free schools allow students to have their phones, but require they be put away during school hours - from bell to bell. It's not about taking phones away completely. It's about creating a structured environment where learning is prioritized. School districts and educational leaders are turning to the Yondr Phone-Free Schools Program to help them do just that.
The Yondr pouch is just one part of the equation. For phone-free schools to succeed, they need:
Clear, customized policy development to support consistent, school-wide implementation
Built-in training and onboarding for staff, students, and parents
Secure, durable pouches designed for daily use that let students keep phones, but without the distractions
Fast, reliable unlocking infrastructure to support smooth operations
Ongoing strategic support to guarantee long-term success
Our students deserve schools where they can be present, engaged, and supported. With the right tools and the right approach, we can get there, together.
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