Beachwood High School Unveils New Cell Phone Policy

In a move to enhance student focus and engagement, Beachwood High School has implemented a new cell phone policy for the 2024-2025 school year. This initiative aims to create a more conducive learning environment by limiting cell phone and smartwatch use during instructional periods. Students will still be able to access their devices between classes and during lunchtime.

This policy aligns with House Bill 250, which mandates public schools to limit cell phone use by students during the school day to enhance classroom focus and reduce distractions.

“By limiting cell phones and smartwatches during class, students can fully engage with the lesson,” explains Beachwood High School Principal Paul Chase. “Our pilot program last year showed promising results, and our staff is strongly supportive of this initiative.”

Under the new policy, when students enter a classroom, they will place their cell phones and smartwatches in a designated storage pocket for the entire period. For restroom breaks or other necessary exits during instructional time, students will use their cell phones for the high school’s digital hall pass system, which allows students to sign out digitally before leaving the classroom.

“The main issue with cell phone use in the classroom is that it creates significant distractions,” Mr. Chase explains. “Students feel the urge to check their phones constantly.”

A 2023 report from Common Sense Media found that teenagers receive a median of 273 notifications a day, with nearly a quarter occurring during school hours. Such digital distractions have been linked to lower academic performance and mental health issues among students.

Mr. Chase says the district will closely monitor the effectiveness of the policy through data on disciplinary referrals, grades, and test scores, but he is optimistic about the potential benefits. “We believe this change will positively impact student engagement and learning outcomes,” he says. “However, its success will really come down to the support and collaboration of parents, staff, and students.”