Illinois is set to join a growing national movement by implementing a statewide cellphone ban in classrooms, Governor JB Pritzker announced this week. The policy aims to boost student achievement, encourage face-to-face interaction, and combat rising mental health concerns linked to social media use. If approved, Illinois schools would enforce screen-free schools during instructional hours by the 2026-2027 academic year.
Legislation introduced in the General Assembly would require districts to ban personal devices during class time, provide secure storage, and review policies every three years. Eight states already restrict phone use in schools, with 15 others considering similar measures as concerns over student focus intensify nationwide.
Students are more engaged, they’re more attentive in class. This reduces social media exposure linked to anxiety and depression,said Martin Torres, Illinois’ deputy governor for education. A Pew Research study underscores the urgency: 70% of U.S. high school teachers cite cellphone distraction as a major classroom problem.
The proposal allows exceptions for:
- Emergencies or safety threats
- Teacher-approved educational use
- Medical requirements
- Special education plans
- English language learners
Peoria Public Schools – an early adopter – reported striking improvements after introducing magnetic locking pouches for devices. Superintendent Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat shared:
I am looking into students' eyes who have never looked up from a screen before.Surveys of 8,000 students showed increased focus and participation within months.
Illinois previously banned cellphones in the 1990s but reversed course as devices became ubiquitous. Modern solutions now balance accessibility needs with learning priorities. Parents concerned about emergency access can contact schools through traditional channels like office phones or emails.
This screen-free schools initiative reflects broader efforts to prioritize childhood development over digital intrusion, offering a flexible model for districts nationwide.