Oregon governor bans student cellphones in schools

(JULY 7, 2025) Last week, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek signed a new rule. It says students in public schools cannot use cellphones during the school day. Every public school in Oregon must have a rule like this by October 31, 2025. The new rules must start by January 1, 2026.

This change is for all students in grades K–12. That means from kindergarten to the end of high school.

The goal is to help students focus more in class. Supporters say cellphones are a big distraction. Some people also believe phones cause problems like bullying and stress.

Governor Kotek said, "Our schools should be a place where students feel happy, safe, and ready to learn. Research shows that cellphone use can hurt mental health, school safety, and learning. I want to support all students in Oregon.”

Some people do not like the law. Some school leaders said each school should make its own rules. They also said it is expensive to control cellphones. For example, some schools use special bags that cost $25 to $30 per student.

Some parents were also worried. They said they want to call their children quickly in an emergency.

Jared Horvath is a brain expert. He supports the rule. He said classes have more teaching time. Students focus better. Teachers feel more connected to their students.

Gustavo Barraza is a high school student. He said the new rule helped in his school. “Students talked more to each other and paid more attention,” he said. “Phones cause a lot of problems, and things felt better without them.”

Schools will still allow cellphones sometimes. For example, if a student has a disability or a health issue, they may use a phone if their learning plan says they need it.

Each school must also answer these questions:

• Where will students will keep their phones during the school day?

• What happens if a student breaks the rule?

• How will schools make sure students do not miss class time as punishment?

Some example policies will be shared with schools. However, districts can choose how to follow the rule.