Minnesota weighs cell phone ban in elementary, middle schools

Minnesota lawmakers are weighing a proposal to ban cell phones and smart watches in elementary and middle schools while limiting their use in high school classrooms. Educators shared positive experiences with existing policies at a recent Senate hearing, highlighting reductions in disciplinary issues and increased classroom engagement. However, some argue the proposed law may create unnecessary uniformity, given that schools are already required to establish their own cell phone policies. Proponents maintain it would support existing efforts to manage technology in education.

Why does this matter in Minot? This seems to be one of the few non partisan topics state legislators are talking about. Many surrounding states are acting decisively; North Dakota’s legislature chose to pass the buck down to the local level, requiring they create a policy. In Minnesota, they’ve already done that and the issue is back before them.Read about our past coverage on this here. Minnesota Public Radio has more on what’s happening in Minnesota linked below.