Modesto students scrolling through TikTok during class may come to an end if proposed statewide legislation is passed.
In June, Gov. Gavin Newsom said he would support legislation to limit smartphone use in California classrooms. In a statement, he said he wants to work with the state Legislature to restrict phone use during the school day.
His announcement came on the same day the Los Angeles Unified School District board voted to ban smartphone use during school hours. Its policy will take effect in January.
With the potential for statewide legislation, we look at Modesto City Schools’ current policy on smartphone use.
In October 2023, the school board said students may use cell phones , smart watches, pagers, and other devices on campus during noninstructional times.
The policy urges phones to be turned off; however, it does not have any requirement that devices be taken away or stored at the beginning of class.
The phone policy does state that students found using a phone inappropriately may be disciplined and an employee has the right to confiscate the device.