Greg Cabana, a veteran government teacher at Wakefield High School in Arlington, Virginia, recalls a time when monitoring students’ cell phone use overshadowed his role as an educator. “It was a constant occurrence in every class period,” Cabana told CNN. “It wasn’t a matter of if students would have their cell phones out, but rather how much they would use them.”
However, this academic year marks a change as Wakefield High School is part of a pilot program launched in September 2024 that requires students to store their phones in magnetic locking pouches each morning. At the end of the day, they retrieve their phones using a specialized box.
This initiative follows an executive order from Virginia’s Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin last July, mandating districts to transition towards a “phone-free education” by 2025. Youngkin’s order aims to cultivate a healthier and more focused learning environment.
Despite facing initial resistance from students, who were reluctant to part with their devices, the school community is adjusting to the new policy. Students report feeling more engaged and focused on their studies, with fewer distractions in the classroom.
The impact of the cellphone ban on academic performance remains to be seen, but Cabana is confident that positive outcomes will arise. Already, students are enjoying increased social interactions and a decrease in interpersonal conflicts. The ban has prompted students to engage more with their peers and foster meaningful connections.
While Wakefield High School serves as a pioneer in implementing cellphone restrictions, similar initiatives are emerging nationwide. In addition to Virginia, eight other states have introduced statewide policies to regulate cell phone usage in schools, with more states considering similar measures.
State lawmakers in Utah have proposed a bill to ban cellphones in schools, citing concerns about mental health issues associated with excessive smartphone use. This bipartisan effort is supported by leaders like California Governor Gavin Newsom and Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. While some educators question the effectiveness of a complete ban on phones in schools, others argue that teaching digital literacy skills is essential. There are also concerns about how the policy would impact students in low-income schools who rely on school Wi-Fi for internet access. Despite these challenges, some see the ban as a way to promote a safer and more focused learning environment.
