A bill is expected to be introduced in Colorado’s legislature that would require all school districts to implement a policy limiting cellphone use in the classroom. State Representative Meghan Lukens is set to sponsor the bill, with the aim of maximizing student learning potential by reducing distractions. The legislation, which is also supported by State Senator Lisa Frizell, encourages collaboration between parents, school districts, and students in determining the best cellphone policies for their communities. Research has shown that banning mobile phones in the classroom can improve academic outcomes, particularly for low-achieving students.
While some parents and students support the ban on cellphone usage during class, concerns have been raised about the ability to communicate during emergencies. However, schools like Adams 12 Five Star Schools already have policies in place that require phones to be turned off or silenced in academic settings, while being accessible in case of emergencies. The Colorado Attorney General’s Office is also offering $50,000 grants to school districts that create policies restricting phone usage in classrooms.
School districts like Boulder Valley School District and Mesa County School District 51 have already implemented cellphone policies that restrict phone usage, with positive results such as increased social interactions and attention to academics. Overall, the bill aims to provide a distraction-free learning environment for students in Colorado, with school districts having until July 2026 to develop a plan if the bill becomes law.