Massachusetts lawmakers are advancing legislation to implement a statewide restriction on student cellphone access in public schools, aiming to minimize distractions and enhance focus during class time.
Governor Maura Healey has endorsed a “bell-to-bell” policy limiting cellphone use from the start to the end of the school day, to aid educators, families, youth mental well-being, and academic growth. This builds on “The STUDY Act,” introduced by Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell in January 2025, requiring school districts to develop policies prohibiting or limiting cellphone use during instructional hours.
Sponsored by state Senator Julian Cyr, the proposal recently cleared a key Senate committee and allows exceptions for parental communication, with districts crafting enforcement plans.Supporters, including the Massachusetts Teachers Association, argue that cellphones disrupt education by enabling social media engagement, fostering conflicts, and hindering progress…