Cell Phone Ban

In this article, Chloe gives her opinion on the recent Oregon cell phone ban during school hours.

The cell phone ban: opinion

By Chloe Burrell

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek signed Executive Order 25-09, banning cell phones on students' persons during school hours in hopes of improving student well-being and boosting education throughout the state. All districts in Oregon were ordered to start adapting to the cell phone ban on Oct. 31, 2025, and needed to be in full effect by Jan. 1, 2026. Since the year started, many teachers and students have been outspoken in their opinions about this recent ban, but it seems like Kotek’s order has absolutely made a difference in school culture throughout these past few months.

Image from: Wikimedia Commons

With cell phones out of class, Governor Kotek hoped there would be many upsides to students’ lives. Over the last couple of years, there has been a tremendous increase in depression, anxiety, and a decrease in graduation rates. It was vital for Kotek to sign this order, putting our students first. According to the Oregon Newsroom, Kotek shared, “Oregon’s schools should be a place where students find belonging, support, and the joy of learning something new." While many students have been angry about not being able to have their phones in class, the Governor only did what was best for them. Her intentions were not to ruin the fun but to boost learning and make school a safer space. It is important for students to understand why Kotek made the decision to ban cell phones during school-- so that students can take advantage of their high school experience off of screens.

Since this cell phone ban has been in place, it has made an apparent difference in students’ everyday lives. Some educational staff members have openly shared their thoughts on this order being forced into schools. Students occasionally disregard the order and rebel, leaving teachers to reinforce. Whether or not the staff dislikes the constant management, the order has still kept students off their phones more than ever. Oregon Public Broadcasting shared an interview with Three Rivers Superintendent Dave Valenzuela, where he stated, “The adoption process for students, in terms of the way they accepted it, was a lot shorter than I anticipated. I've actually gotten positive feedback from students, believe it or not, and overwhelming positive feedback from staff and parents.” Many students had a solid response to this curveball being thrown at them, and responded better than expected. Even though some dislike this new order involved in their school or work life, it has tremendously improved both the students' well-being and education.

Image found on Universe

Tina Kotek's action of signing the executive order to ban cell phones was unexpected by many, but was a good choice. Students' mental health has been better than ever, with their interaction skyrocketing and school work being both more understood and completed. Kotek made the best decision she could for students’ school lives by signing this order.

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