Phones in Schools: Balancing Learning, Safety, and Freedom: Youth Led Forum

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill (HB) 250, requiring each school district and community school to adopt a cell phone policy by July 1, 2025. While schools have the flexibility to choose a policy that fits their needs, many have taken varying approaches with a broad range of impacts. The new law aims to reduce distractions in schools that lead to negative learning outcomes for students.\r\n\r\nOhio\'s new cell phone policy sparks debate. Proponents argue the policy will enhance learning, while opponents contend it could create safety risks. Meanwhile, schools have tightened restrictions on when and how students can use their phones. Questions remain about whether these rules are genuinely designed to improve the learning environment. This student-led forum provides a valuable opportunity to explore this complex issue.\r\n\r\nAs technology becomes more deeply integrated into everyday life, the questions arise: How should schools balance innovation with attention demands? Should schools ban phones or find ways to incorporate them into teaching more effectively? What is the policy's impact on student health? The conversation is just beginning. Students will have the chance to hear from experts about what the policy entails and, perhaps more importantly, what comes next.