Students, it’s time to say goodbye to cellphones.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has offically signed a bill that bans cellphones in schools from the start of the day until the dismissal bell, known as a “bell-to-bell” policy.
According to NBC Chicago, the main driver behind the new law was Pritzker’s office, which cited Pew Research studies indicating that up to three out of four high school teachers view cellphone distractions as a significant issue in the classroom.
There are exceptions to this rule, allowing cellphone use for managing healthcare, fulfilling an “Individualized Education Plan,” or for students who need phones to continue learning English. Additionally, medical exemptions are included for students who are caregivers for family members.
This law also will require schools to provide storage options for students to help prevent the use, loss, or theft of their devices.
These policies are set to take effect in the 2027-28 school year, according to the provisions of the law.
