Michigan Schools to Regulate Smartphone Use

Published on 4.28.25

  The use of smartphones in schools has become a pressing concern as students increasingly rely on them for academic purposes, but also often find themselves distracted by social media and other online content. Michigan state lawmakers are considering a bill that would require school districts to implement cellphone policies. The proposed legislation, backed by Pinterest's CEO Bill Ready, aims to create a baseline restriction while allowing for exceptions in emergency situations and individual needs. This approach is supported by Bob Kefgen, associate director of government relations for the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals, who believes that consistent rules are essential for gaining community support. The bill's sponsor, Tisdel, has stated that the goal is to create a framework that balances student needs with the need for responsible phone use. To support these efforts, Pinterest has pledged $1 million to the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) to help develop digital wellbeing policies in 12 school districts. The proposed legislation is part of a broader effort to address phone distractions in schools, with some schools already implementing phone-free policies. By working together, educators and policymakers can help ensure that smartphones are used as a valuable tool for learning rather than a source of distraction.

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