Gov DeWine Doubles Down On Cell Phone Ban in Schools
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine strongly supported a ban on cell phones in schools. He’s pushing for Senate Bill 158, which would stop students from using phones during school hours. Why? Because DeWine believes phones distract kids too much. Plus, he thinks they hurt students’ mental health. So, let’s dive into his plan and see what’s happening.
Why DeWine Wants This Ban
According to the governor’s website, DeWine says phones make it hard for students to focus. For example, kids get about 192 notifications daily—that’s one every five minutes! As a result, learning suffers. Also, he’s worried about anxiety and bullying tied to phone use. Last year, he signed a law letting schools set their own phone rules. However, that wasn’t enough. Now, he wants one clear rule for all Ohio schools.
The Good Stuff: Pros of the Ban
So, what’s the upside? Well, schools with no phones see better grades and happier kids. For instance, Dublin City Schools banned phones and noticed livelier lunchrooms. Kids talk more instead of staring at screens. Additionally, teachers and parents like it. They say it helps students pay attention. Even businesses support it, wanting workers who aren’t glued to devices.
The Tough Parts: Cons of the Ban
But, not everyone agrees. Some parents worry they can’t reach their kids in emergencies. Meanwhile, others wonder how schools will enforce it. For example, high schoolers might resist giving up their phones. Although exceptions exist—like for medical needs—some say local rules work better than a big ban.
What’s Next?
Currently, Senate Bill 158 is being discussed. While DeWine’s all in, lawmakers might not agree so fast. Still, he’s determined. After all, he wants kids to learn and connect without distractions. So, will Ohio go phone-free in schools? Only time will tell! What do you think about this idea?
