If you have a child who is in elementary and middle school, expect big changes when it comes to in school cell phone usage. Earlier this year, a bill was signed into law earlier restricting cell phone access for all public school students from kindergarten through eighth grade during school hours.
The law, backed by Georgia educators and lawmakers, aims to cut down on classroom distractions and improve student focus. Under the policy, students won't be allowed to access their phones from the morning bell until dismissal. However, they can still bring phones to school and use them before and after school hours.
While the law isn't criminal in nature, violators will face school-level sanctions, and some worry about who will be forced to carry out the discipline.
Some teachers feel that the new law will be hard to enforce, and parents are also expressing mixed feelings on the law specifically safety and staying in touch.
The legislation leaves room for schools to shape their own enforcement policies. Many are hoping educators will use discretion when it comes to emergencies or urgent communication.
As classrooms across Georgia settle into the new school year, one thing is certain, this law is sure to change the school day for thousands of students, parents, and teachers across the state.
