MICHIGAN — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer recently signed into law two bipartisan bills, Senate Bill 495 and House Bill 4141, which will require Michigan school districts to create action plans that require cell phones to be out of classrooms, with exceptions for their academic use and use during emergencies.

“I’m proud to sign these bipartisan bills that will help prioritize academic success and support youth mental health,” said Whitmer. “We know that when students put their phones down, their grades go up. These bills will help keep kids focused in the classroom and break their growing dependency on screens and social media. We could all benefit from looking up at the world instead of down at our phones.”

Local schools have responded supportively to the new bills, with many having already instated district-wide restrictions on phones in the classroom.

“We’ve already banned cell phones from classrooms at the beginning of last school year, so this is the second full school year that they’re not allowed,” said Dr. Sara Croney, superintendent of Gwinn Area Community Schools. “It went very smoothly, there’s still enforcement that needs to happen but it’s the best thing for our educational system to not have the distraction of cell phones in the classroom.”

“I’m fine with the bill,” said Carrie Meyer, superintendent of Ishpeming Public Schools. “We for the most part ban cell phones currently in classrooms. We may take a look at district guidelines and make sure they’re aligned with the new law.”

Superintendent Zack Sedgwick of Marquette Area Public Schools also expressed support for implementing restrictions on cell phone use in the classroom.

According to the National Education Association, 90% of educators support policies that reduce cell phone use during class time.

“Over half of states across the U.S. and several schools in Michigan have already implemented policies that address phones in the classroom,” according to the Michigan Executive Office of the Governor. “These schools have seen positive results, including a rise in test scores, fewer instances of cyber bullying, more use of school libraries and improved social skills among students. These bills will help Michigan students succeed by removing one of the most disruptive distractions in the classroom and by helping our kids prioritize their academic success and mental well-being.

“Districts will have control over their phone policies, allowing local leaders to consult with teachers, parents, and community members on what works best for their schools. This allows for flexibility in deciding how students can access their devices in case of emergency and on productive ways phones can be used as academic tools.”

Annie Lippert can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550. Her email address is alippert@miningjournal.net.