Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is focused on enhancing academic performance, promoting social interactions, and supporting the mental well-being of public school students by proposing a statewide prohibition on cellphone use within classrooms. This initiative is becoming increasingly popular across the nation, transcending political divides.
Martin Torres, the Governor’s top education advisor, indicated that Pritzker will advocate for “screen-free schools” during his upcoming address, which will combine the State of the State and Budget discussions on Wednesday. Current legislation introduced in both chambers of the General Assembly calls for school districts to implement policies that eliminate the use of personal electronic devices during classroom instruction, while allowing for certain exceptions. The proposed rules would also necessitate arrangements for safe yet accessible storage of phones and tablets, with a mandatory review every three years.
Currently, eight states have regulations restricting or banning cellphone usage in schools. Among the 15 states proposing similar initiatives are Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, Iowa, Kentucky, and Michigan. According to a survey by the Pew Research Center, approximately 70% of high school teachers in the United States regard cellphone distractions as a significant hindrance in educational settings.
Torres noted that over ten school districts in Illinois have already adopted screen-free policies, yielding positive outcomes. He stated, “Students are more engaged and attentive in class, which enhances participation in classroom interactions.” He believes this proposal will assist teachers in delivering instructions more effectively while decreasing both screen time and exposure to social media, which research indicates can be linked to anxiety, depression, and dissatisfaction with one’s body image.
The legislation, which requires adoption of policies by the 2026-2027 academic year, is designed to provide school districts with the flexibility needed to create guidelines that best fit their unique circumstances. The plan seeks to restrict access to wireless devices during instructional times, except in cases of emergencies or when authorized by a teacher. Devices would also be permitted for students with specific health needs, as part of an individual education plan, or for English learners.
This academic year, Peoria schools initiated a program where each student receives a neoprene pouch with a magnetic lock, accessible only by teachers or administrators. A midyear survey of 8,000 students in grades 5 through 12 indicated increased focus and participation, according to Superintendent Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat. She shared that a teacher reported seeing students engage eye-to-eye who had previously been glued to their screens.
Illinois had previously led the way in restricting cellphone use in schools back in the early 1990s when cellphones were relatively new and expensive. Initially viewed as tools utilized by drug dealers, perceptions shifted as technology evolved, making cellphones crucial for maintaining contact with family members. By 2002, the state legislature reversed its stance and allowed their use in educational facilities.
Even though Peoria students have their devices turned off and securely stored, Desmoulin-Kherat assured parents that they still have means to contact their children in emergencies. “Just like in the past, you can call the office,” she explained. “You can send an email. You don’t need a cellphone to communicate with your family.”
