OLYMPIA—Study after study shows the use of cellphones and other devices in classrooms have a detrimental effect on students. With that in mind, Senator Marko Liias (D-Edmonds) has introduced bipartisan Senate Bill 5346 to ask every school district in the state to develop policies to keep cellphones and other devices out of Washington’s classrooms.
“We know students of all ages do better when they can focus and actively engage during the school day,” said Senator Liias, sponsor of the bill. “There’s a mountain of evidence that shows focused students are better students. This bill will help kids concentrate less on screens and more on academic success.”
A 2024 Pew Research Center survey revealed that 72% of high school teachers say cellphones in their classroom are a major distraction, compared to 33% of middle school teachers. While 6% of elementary school teachers site device use as a problem.
Similarly, a 2024 survey by the National Education Association found that 79% of educators in schools where cellphones are allowed consider them to be highly disruptive. Additionally, 90% of those surveyed expressed support for policies that would limit students’ cellphone use during instructional time.
The bill has been referred to the Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education Committee and awaits a public hearing date.
In September of 2024, Washington State Superintendent Chris Reykdal released OSPI guidance for schools to limit cell phone use in class as a way to promote better mental health and digital literacy in Washington schools.
To track the bill’s progress, click here.
Source: Office of Senator Marko Liias
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
