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New policy to go into effect in January

 

LANDRUM—On Tuesday, the South Carolina Board of Education banned the use of smartphones and other electronic devices during the school day for students. 

The new policy mandates that students keep their phones and other communication devices turned off and stored in their backpacks or lockers during the school day. Although schools have the flexibility to establish stricter rules, all public schools must comply with the state policy or risk losing state funding.

State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver emphasized the need for this policy change.

“Research and feedback show that the widespread use of smartphones in schools has created serious academic, mental health, and discipline challenges,” Weaver said. “With this policy, South Carolina students will be free to focus on their academic future and building life-long friendships in a safe environment, while South Carolina educators are free to focus on teaching.”

While the policy will officially be enacted statewide in January, schools are expected to finalize their rules during the fall. To support this initiative, the state has also launched “Free to Focus SC,” described as a one-stop shop for educators, parents, and students across the state as they move toward a school environment without constant digital distractions.

Similar bans in schools have been gaining popularity across the country despite concerns about parents’ ability to reach their children in case of an emergency. This move has sparked conversations about balancing the benefits of reduced distractions with the need for available communication channels during critical situations.