National and State Trends

Across the country, many schools have implemented strict cell phone bans during school hours. For instance, in California, some districts require students to keep their phones in lockers, while others have adopted “phone-free” zones. Similarly, in Texas, several schools have initiated policies that allow phone use only during lunch breaks or designated areas.

In New Jersey, the approach has been somewhat mixed. Some schools have opted for complete bans, while others have embraced a more lenient policy, allowing phones for educational purposes under teacher supervision. The New Jersey Department of Education has left the decision largely to the individual districts, resulting in a variety of policies regarding the issue.

Overall, due to the The Phone-Free Schools Act, most states will be required to moderate phone usage in schools and restrict cell phones by July 1, 2024. 

Impact on Freehold Township High School

At Freehold Township High School and the FRHSD district, the rule on phones is that they must be away at all times besides lunch, passing time, and study hall. The response to this newly introduced ban has been mixed. Some parents and educators welcome the change, hoping it will lead to a more focused and productive classroom atmosphere. On the other hand, some parents are concerned about the logistics of the ban, particularly in terms of staying in touch with their children throughout the school day. Nonetheless, the debate continues as local school districts across the country weigh the potential benefits against the possible disadvantages of cell phone ban policies.