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Senate approves 'bell-to-bell' ban on student cell phones in classrooms
Summary
The Massachusetts Senate passed Senate Bill 2561, a measure that would prohibit student use of personal electronic devices during the school day and requires model policies, consistent exemptions and public input as districts implement local rules.
The Massachusetts Senate passed Senate Bill 2561, a measure to ban student use of personal electronic devices during the school day “bell to bell,” advancing the measure to engrossment.
Supporters said the rule is intended to improve academic focus, mental health and social interaction in classrooms. Senator Creighton, Third Essex District, said she filed the legislation after reading Jonathan Haidt’s Anxious Generation and from personal experience, and argued the bill’s “bell to bell component” will reduce constant distraction for students. "This legislation strikes the right balance in being bold and going bell to bell, providing exceptions where necessary," Creighton said on the Senate floor.
The bill drew examples from districts that have already limited phones. Senator Patrick O'Connor, First Plymouth and Norfolk District, cited a recently opened middle school in Weymouth and said administrators there reported…
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