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3/5/2025
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Op-Ed: Smart phones hinder education and don’t belong in the classroom
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By Rep. Julie A. Casimiro, Sen. Melissa A. Murray and Mary K. Barden
One of the most significant shifts in modern education is that students now carry the entirety of the world’s information in their pockets and backpacks, constantly vying for their attention – often at the expense of learning.
While technology has revolutionized how we access knowledge, the presence of cell phones has become more of a distraction than a tool for academic success. Beyond disrupting learning, the constant presence of phones also affects students’ health and well-being, making it clear why schools must address this growing challenge.
Instead of engaging with teachers and peers, students are distracted by their devices, checking social media, text messages and apps. Studies consistently show that personal devices take a serious toll on a student’s ability to focus in the classroom and their overall mental health. Phones also contribute to classroom disruption. Educators report they are forced to compete for attention, students have trouble concentrating, and behavioral issues escalate more quickly.
Rhode Island’s young people are in crisis. In 2022, a cohort of pediatricians and psychiatrists declared a state of emergency in child and adolescent mental health. Removing or restricting cell phones in public schools is one of many necessary steps to support our students academically, socially and emotionally – helping them learn and thrive.
That is why we have introduced legislation (2025-H 5598) that would require every public school district to establish a clear, strong policy restricting the use of personal electronic devices in school. Exceptions would be made for students who need their electronic devices for individualized learning plans, multilingual learning support or medical purposes. Importantly, enforcement would be handled by administration, not left to teachers, allowing educators to focus on instruction without the burden of policing phone use.
Currently, 15 states have passed laws or enacted policies that ban or restrict cell phone use in the classroom and some of the largest school districts in the country have implemented similar policies. Here in Rhode Island, several districts and schools have already developed strong policies in collaboration with parents, social workers, educators and administrators. The results are positive: students in these communities are more attentive, engagement has improved, and behavioral problems have drastically declined. Beyond the classroom, there is eye contact in the hallways, loud chatter has returned to the lunchroom, and social connections are thriving again.
No single policy will solve the academic and mental health challenges facing students today, but we cannot ignore the positive outcomes seen in schools that have implemented cell phone restrictions with input from educators, parents and the community. The evidence is clear: reduced distractions lead to stronger academics, improved focus, better mental health, and more meaningful social interactions. It’s time for Rhode Island to join the growing number of states taking action on this issue. Every student – no matter their district – deserves the opportunity to learn in a focused environment and build real face-to-face connections with their peers.
Rep. Julie A. Casimiro, a Democrat, represents District 31 in North Kingstown and Exeter. Sen. Melissa Murray, a Democrat, represents District 24 in Woonsocket and North Smithfield. Mary K. Barden is the executive director of National Educational Association Rhode Island.
For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124
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