Ohio Schools to Implement Stricter Cell Phone Policies

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – Lt. Governor Jon Husted recently met with school leaders in Independence to discuss the implementation of new cell phone policies in K-12 schools following a new law signed by Governor Mike DeWine.

The legislation mandates that school districts establish comprehensive policies regarding student cellphone use during school hours. These policies, which must be adopted by school boards by July 1, 2025, aim to significantly limit cell phone usage to minimize classroom distractions.

Under the new law, districts can prohibit students from carrying cellphones within school buildings or on school grounds, provided that specific disciplinary measures are clearly outlined. Exceptions are allowed for students who require phones for behavioral plans or health monitoring.

A study by Common Sense Media revealed that 97% of students use their phones during school hours, and nearly 60% use them overnight. The legislation aims to address these high usage rates by reducing the impact of cell phones on academic performance and school culture.

“The feedback from educators is clear. Cell phones in schools create significant distractions. When we restricted their use, we saw improvements in test scores and overall school culture,” said Lt. Governor Husted.

During the meeting, Husted and representatives from the Department of Education and Workforce reviewed the Governor’s model policy, which bans cell phone use on school grounds during instructional hours and requires phones to be stored in a secure location.

Joseph Spiccia, superintendent of the Wickliffe City School District, shared his district’s experiences. “Currently, we have a policy that allows limited cell phone use outside classrooms. However, our board is considering stricter regulations as we approach the 2025 school year,” Spiccia stated.

The model policy includes provisions for students who need cell phones as part of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or for health-related reasons. School districts can either adopt this model policy or develop their own tailored guidelines.

For more information on the new cell phone policy requirements and updates, visit the Ohio Department of Education’s website.

Stay tuned for further details on how these changes will be implemented across Ohio schools.