WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Education has called on state and local education agencies to adopt comprehensive policies guiding the use of student personal devices in schools. To support this effort, the Department has released a new resource titled Planning Together: A Playbook for Student Personal Device Policies, which provides a structured framework for designing effective and community-informed policies.
The playbook outlines a collaborative approach for education leaders to engage educators, students, parents, and caregivers in creating device-use policies tailored to their unique communities. It includes a step-by-step guide for identifying needs and concerns related to cell phone usage, balancing safety and communication with the importance of maintaining an environment conducive to learning.
“In this digital age, every elementary, middle, and high school should have a clear, consistent, and research-informed policy to guide the use of phones and personal devices in school,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. He emphasized the Department’s commitment to supporting schools in crafting policies that prioritize learning while addressing safety concerns.
A Growing Need for Device Management Policies
While personal devices can foster communication between students and parents during emergencies, there is mounting evidence that unrestricted use can disrupt learning and negatively affect student well-being. Studies have linked cell phone use to issues such as decreased attention during class and greater exposure to cyberbullying, as well as mental health challenges like depression and sleep disruption.
The Department stressed that its playbook is not intended as a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, it provides a foundation for local education officials to create adaptable policies that reflect the needs and values of their communities.
Secretary Cardona remarked, “The nuances of this issue demand that local voices – parents, educators, and students – inform local decisions around the use of personal devices in school.”
Balancing Safety, Equity, and Educational Focus
The initiative aims to ensure that schools address modern challenges through inclusive and research-informed practices. By encouraging partnership and clear communication, the Department aims to equip schools with the tools needed to foster environments focused on educational success, equity, and the well-being of students.
The Department anticipates that this playbook will serve as a pivotal step in guiding schools nationwide to craft policies that promote better learning conditions while navigating the responsible use of technology.
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