The NewsWorthy Special Edition: Phones in School Debate – Policies, Impact & What’s Next
Aug 9, 2025
Brindley Murphy Reuter, a program administrator at the Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children’s Hospital, dives into the contentious debate over phone bans in schools. She shares insights from over 1,500 teens, discussing how strict policies can backfire and impact student autonomy and mental health. Brindley also highlights effective communication strategies for parents grappling with tech use and the importance of mindful practices as kids navigate their first phones. The conversation stresses the need for collaborative efforts among educators, parents, and tech companies.
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Four Common School Phone Policies
- Researchers found four main school phone policies: bell-to-bell, off-and-away, limited use, and classroom-specific rules.
- 83% of teens reported having some form of school-wide phone policy.
Teens Often Self-Regulate Phone Use
- 63% of teens say they use phones too much and 56% call them moderate or major distractions at school.
- 47% already use apps or tools to manage their time.
Phone Bans Can Undermine Student Safety
- About one-third of students said phone rules made them feel less safe, with stronger effects for girls and transgender/non-binary youth.
- Phones provide immediate contact and a sense of control during perceived threats.