(The Center Square) – California Gov. Gavin Newsom called upon schools to use their authority to limit smartphones in classrooms after asking the legislature to take further action to reduce smartphone use at school.
California State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, who is running to replace Newsom after the governor terms out in 2026, followed up hours later with a similar request of his own.
“As I work with the Legislature to further limit student smartphone use on campus, there is no reason for schools to wait,” Newsom wrote in his letter. “I urge every school district to act now to restrict smartphone use on campus as we begin the new academic year. The evidence is clear: reducing phone use in class leads to improved concentration, better academic outcomes, and enhanced social interactions.”
Newsom also noted Pew Research Center found “72% of high school and 33% of middle school teachers report cell phone distractions as a major problem” and Common Sense Media found “97% of students use their phones during the school day for a median of 43 minutes.” The majority of California students do not reach state standards in any subject.