On Tuesday, a bill was proposed that would restrict the use of cell phones in Tennessee classrooms. Scott Cepicky (R-Culleoka), a state representative, introduced House Bill 13 (HB13).
In addition to serving on the Education Administration, Education Instruction, and Insurance Subcommittees, Representative Cepicky is the chairman of the Education Instruction Subcommittee.
According to Rep. Cepicky, the bill would mandate that school boards create rules that, with certain exceptions, forbid pupils from using “wireless communication devices” in class.
These exclusions include the use of phones for instructional purposes, as directed by teachers, for student medical crises, and for the requirements of students with disabilities.
According to Rep. Cepicky, HB13 would also let teachers to confiscate devices from pupils who violate the usage regulations.
“Fostering an environment of student engagement and focus during instructional periods is essential to a quality education,” Cepicky stated. “Cell phone usage in the classroom presents an unnecessary distraction for students and is unfair to the hard-working teachers who are passionate about educating the next generation. This legislation will limit interruptions and empower Tennessee’s children to concentrate on learning, which can improve social skills, mental health and academic performance.”
According to a Pew Research Center study cited by Rep. Cepicky, over 70% of high school instructors in the United States believe that phones and other electronic gadgets are a “major problem” in the classroom.
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“Studies have concluded that enacting restrictions on cell phone usage during instructional periods increases academic performance, specifically for low-achieving students,” Rep. Cepicky stated.
At least eight states currently prohibit cell phones in classrooms. According to Rep. Cepicky, the 114th Tennessee General Assembly will meet on January 14.
