The Oregon Department of Education released a new policy encouraging public schools to limit students’ cell phone use.
The guidance cites the associated mental, social and academic challenges as reasons to decrease screen time.
“We will be challenged to help students achieve their education goals, like reading and math skills, if students aren’t focused on learning when they’re in school,” said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek in a press release. “Cell phones are a distraction and can harm students’ mental health and well-being if used inappropriately.”
Countless studies have already linked phones – particularly social media – with rising rates of anxiety and depression among adolescents.
