News Summary
The Forsyth County School Board has approved a policy banning student use of electronic devices during school hours to create a distraction-free learning environment. This includes phones, tablets, and smartwatches, with some exceptions for high school students during lunch and for those with specific educational plans. The decision comes in alignment with Georgia’s Distraction-Free Education Act aimed at improving student focus. Similar restrictions are being adopted by several school districts across the state, reflecting a growing trend to limit device distractions in schools.
Forsyth County, GA – The Forsyth County School Board has officially implemented a policy banning students from using electronic devices during school hours. Under the new guidelines, students are required to stow away and turn off their phones, smartwatches, and tablets during the school day. The policy allows device usage on school buses, at bus stops, and on campus before and after school hours. However, high school students are permitted to use their devices during lunch.
This policy received unanimous approval from board members on June 17 during a meeting where they emphasized the importance of creating a distraction-free learning environment while also promoting student independence. This decision aligns with a recently signed state law, known as the Distraction-Free Education Act, which mandates that all school districts prohibit student device usage during school hours, with certain exceptions, by 2026. The law was signed on May 9, 2023.
At least 14 states have enacted similar legislation addressing cell phone restrictions in schools. A survey conducted by the Pew Research Center indicated that 72% of high school teachers consider distractions caused by electronic devices a significant issue that undermines classroom focus. In addition to this national trend, Forsyth County’s school district conducted surveys that garnered thousands of responses from the community, revealing strong support for limiting electronic device usage in schools. Only about 2% of survey respondents expressed negative feelings towards the new restrictions.
Amy Bartlett, associate superintendent of teaching & learning, underscored the widespread recognition of the negative impact that phones can have on both student focus and overall well-being, further supporting the need for a policy change.
In a parallel move, the Fulton County School Board has adopted a similar policy that prohibits the use of personal electronic devices for students in grades K-8 during school hours. This ban, which will take effect after the summer vacation, applies to devices such as laptops, smartphones, and smartwatches. High school students in Fulton County are allowed to carry their phones but must comply with restrictions on their usage during instructional time.
The new policy also addresses inappropriate device use on school buses, which may lead to disciplinary action for students who violate the rules. Exceptions to the ban exist for students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), a Section 504 plan, or a medical plan that requires the use of electronic devices. Fulton County’s Chief Communication Officer outlined that previous restrictions had already been in place for younger students, while the new ban notably extends to middle school students.
Furthermore, the policy requires schools to establish protocols to facilitate communication between parents and students during school hours. Parents can reach out to the school directly for any necessary communication needs.
These policy changes in Forsyth and Fulton Counties reflect a broader trend across Georgia, with several school districts such as Rockdale, Marietta City, DeKalb County, and Atlanta Public Schools implementing similar restrictions on student device usage. In Rockdale County, plans are in place to introduce locked pouches for students’ phones to ensure compliance throughout the school week.
As these policies roll out, school boards across the state aim to foster an educational atmosphere that prioritizes minimal distractions and promotes effective learning for all students.
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Additional Resources
- Appen Media: Forsyth County Schools Bans Phones in Class
- WSB TV: Fulton County School Board Approves Policy Restricting Electronics
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Fulton County Schools Board Votes to Ban Cellphones in Class
- Wikipedia: Cell Phone Use in Schools
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Electronic Learning
