A cellphone ban is expected to go into effect Tuesday at hundreds of schools across the Los Angeles Unified School District, limiting students' use of devices.
The ban which was passed in 2024, is aimed at prohibiting the use of cellphones and social media platforms by students during the school day. The ban will include other electronic devices with smartphone capabilities such as smart watches.
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Schools will use different techniques for how they enforce the ban. Some schools will require students to keep their phones in their backpacks and other schools have purchased special equipment.
The district said some reasons for the ban are to improve students' attention in classrooms, limit exposure to inappropriate content and decrease device dependency. The initial proposal cited other bans being implemented across the country.
Some ways of implementing the ban:
Stored in backpack
Portable storage
Magnetic pouches
Velcro pouches
Classroom phone holder
Even with the ban, the LAUSD said the policy would allow students to have their phones readily accessible so they can use them in emergency situations, following state guidelines under California's Phone-Free School Act, which Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law in September.
Outlined circumstances when students may use their phones:
In the case of an emergency or in response to a perceived threat of danger
When a teacher or administrator grants permission
When a licensed physician or surgeon determines it is necessary for health or well-being
When required in a student's individualized education program
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