Mount Lebanon School District considers banning cell phones in academic areas

The Mt. Lebanon School District's recent board meeting on June 16, 2025, focused on new guidelines for technology use in schools, particularly regarding cell phone policies for high school students. The discussions highlighted concerns about the impact of cell phones on student engagement and academic performance.

One of the key points raised was the prohibition of cell phone use in academic areas, including study halls and libraries. A board member expressed optimism about enforcing this rule before the upcoming school year, emphasizing the need to minimize distractions from social media and gaming during valuable study time. The speaker also suggested that earbuds should be included in the list of prohibited devices during instructional time, as their use can further detract from learning.

Additionally, the guidelines did not address the issue of picture-taking and videotaping in schools, which was previously banned. The speaker urged the district to reinforce this prohibition in the new guidelines. They advocated for a more comprehensive phone-free policy throughout the school day, citing successful implementations in other districts, such as McDowell High School, where a similar policy reportedly led to improved student interactions and reduced emotional turmoil related to social media.

Another parent, Jane Cassella, praised the new guidelines but raised questions about the enforcement of technology use in classrooms. She highlighted concerns about students using school-issued Chromebooks for non-educational purposes and called for clearer rules regarding device usage during recess. Cassella expressed hope that the district would consider tools like GoGuardian to help enforce these guidelines.

A student, Maya Stranden, shared her experiences with technology in both public and private schools. She argued that excessive reliance on technology can hinder student learning and social interactions. Stranden advocated for a low-tech approach, citing her positive experiences in a private school setting where technology was limited.

The meeting underscored a growing concern among parents and students about the role of technology in education and its potential effects on student well-being. As the district prepares for the new school year, the board is expected to consider these discussions and feedback to refine their technology policies further.