The state Senate and House have both passed a new bell banning cell phones in all public schools in Massachusetts starting in the fall. The bill is in conference committee and Gov. Healy has indicated she will sign it.

Under the law, students will not be permitted access to their cell phones or other devices during school hours. At the start of the school day, students will be required to place their personal device in a designated locked or staff supervised storage area and they will regain them at the end of the school day.

Many schools have different ways of enacting this bill to fit best into their school’s atmosphere and needs. Principle Cavanaugh says that OA is still deciding on how they’re going to implement the bill.

“We are currently forming a committee to review the new legislation and make a plan to write and implement an updated cell phone policy. The new legislation is district-wide, not just for high schools, so we will be looking for input from administrators, staff, and students from all four schools.”

While many students are not overjoyed with the thought out the bill, many educators argue that this ban will improve focus drastically. Considering overconsumption of media during school hours, this ban could allow students to prioritize school work during school hours.

Governor Healey of Massachusetts says that she thinks that the phone ban is the next step to setting up students for success.

“We know that distraction-free learning is the best way to set our students up for success. Restricting cellphone use in our schools will support parents and teachers, protect the mental health of young people, and help our students learn and grow,” said Governor Healey.

Whether you agree or disagree with the new phone policy going into action next school year, all schools are recommended to start preparing for the ban and so should the student population. Future updates will be coming on this topic.