Opinion

Phones Up, Minds Down

By: Amanda Miranda
Editors: Rachel Losh, Madeline Young, Kelley Mccrary, and Paige Salter
Friday, September 5, 2025

If you’ve been in a Louisiana classroom lately, you’ve probably noticed something different: our phones are missing. Louisiana’s new law, Senate Bill 207, bans students from using phones during the school day. That means they’re off and out of sight, from the first period until the final bell.

Teachers say they can already start seeing the changes. In Caddo Parish, some report show that students are more engaged in activities, asking more questions, and paying closer attention to classroom discussions now that their phones are put away.

Research backs up that idea. A study in the United Kingdom found that banning phones in schools raised test scores by about six percent, which is like adding an extra week of class every year. It’s not just about grades, though. The National Education Association reports that 90 percent of teachers support banning phones during instruction because they believe the devices are one of the biggest classroom distractions.

The public is on board, too. According to Pew Research, most Americans think banning phones would help students’ social skills, grades, and overall behavior in school. But banning phones isn’t perfect. A Florida school district that tried an all-day ban saw no boost in grades, but they did see an increase in suspensions and mental health referrals. Safety is another concern. During emergencies, like school shootings or natural disasters, students often rely on their phones to contact parents or even call for help.

Phones can also be learning tools. They work as calculators, translators, or quick research devices, and some teachers argue that schools miss an opportunity when they don’t use them for educational purposes.

That’s why balance seems like the best option. Phones should stay out of sight during lessons to cut distractions, but schools could still allow them for approved activities that support learning.

As a student at Byrd, I’ve noticed both sides. Hallways feel calmer and classes move faster, but I also see times when a phone could actually make learning easier. The ban is teaching us focus, but I hope our schools also teach us how to handle technology responsibly.

In the end, Louisiana students may benefit most if our schools can lock away the distractions while unlocking the potential of technology. That way, we get classrooms that are both focused and ready for the future.

*The opinions expressed on this page do not represent the opinions of C. E. Byrd, its administration, faculty, or students, nor are they representative of the opinions of the High Life Faculty Sponsor, Caddo Parish School Board, or any intenity therein. These opinions are strictly an expression of the High Life Student Editorial Board.