Bell-to-Bell Ban on Cell Phones in Schools Helping Students Learn Distraction-Free

CONCORD, NH - On Wednesday, November 5, Governor Kelly Ayotte and Commissioner of Education Caitlin Davis visited schools to hear from school leaders, educators, and students about the impact of the State's new bell-to-bell ban on cell phones in schools.

"We want every student in our state to reach their full potential in and out of the classroom, and cell phones were getting in the way of that," said Governor Ayotte. "I was proud to sign a bell-to-bell cell phone ban into law, giving districts the flexibility to adopt what works best for them while ensuring teachers don't have to be the phone police. We're already hearing great feedback - classrooms are more focused, lunchrooms are lively again, and students are reconnecting with each other."

Studies from the American Academy of Pediatrics and insights from social psychologist Dr. Jonathan Haidt show excessive screen time is associated with increased rates of anxiety, depression and sleep deprivation among children and teenagers. Schools that have implemented a bell-to-bell policy see fewer distractions in the classroom, reduced instances of cyberbullying, better student engagement, and improved morale among teachers.

"Removing the distraction of cell phones from our classrooms has been an important part of our efforts to make New Hampshire an even better place to learn," said Commissioner Davis. "Educator feedback shows that the bell-to-bell cell phone ban helps teachers focus on student success and support students in learning and building stronger peer relationships."

The Governor and Commissioner visited Brian S. McCarthy Middle School in Nashua, Campbell High School in Litchfield, and Bedford High School in Bedford for tours and discussions on the new policy's positive impact.

"We're already seeing the benefits of the bell-to-bell cell phone policy in our schools - a more positive, focused learning environment for teachers and students alike." said Bedford High School Superintendent Michael Fournier. "I thank Governor Ayotte, the Legislature, and the Department of Education for empowering our schools to create a policy that fits our needs and helps students learn distractions-free."