Ban on cell phones in Georgia’s early grades awaits governor’s signature

Districts like DeKalb County Schools have reported big improvements in classroom discipline after instituting cell phone-free policies, but for some parents and students, concerns over safety linger, especially in the shadow of last year’s shooting at Apalachee High School. (Pixabay)

There may be a lot fewer likes, comments and subscriptions coming out of Georgia schools next summer when a ban on cell phones for all elementary and middle schoolers is set to go into effect during the school day, pending Gov. Brian Kemp’s signature on a bill.

Ban backers say there will also be a lot fewer distractions and disciplinary problems once devices are out of kids’ hands.

A promising pilot

A handful of districts around the state have implemented their own phone bans. DeKalb County Schools has launched a pilot program in 17 of its schools as part of its “Disconnect to Reconnect” initiative launched in August. Darnell Logan, the district’s director of student relations, said the initial results have been very promising.