DOVER, DE- Delaware lawmakers are dialing into a growing concern: cell phone use in classrooms.
Senate Bill 106, introduced this past week by State Senator Eric Buckson (R- District 16), would require all public and charter schools in the First State to implement a clear and effective cell phone policy by Aug. 1, 2025.
Whether it's texting, scrolling, or snapping a quick selfie — phones in schools are a familiar sight.
But Lake Forest High School Principal Angeline Ravello says that sight is hurting students' ability to learn.
“Cell phones have really changed the name of the game for the students and for the staff. But it can be a very distracting piece of equipment."
To cut down on disruptions, Lake Forest School District rolled out stricter rules this year.
“We've asked students not to have their cell phones out unless their teachers give express permission."
Now, Buckson wants every school district in Delaware to establish stronger, more consistent phone policies.
“Having cell phones off or not in use during class time will have a direct correlation between the ability for the child to pay attention, the educator to get the attention of the child, and therefore learning to improve."
As Delaware continues to confront an ongoing literacy crisis, Buckson and other educators say cell phone use in classrooms is contributing to the problem — creating distractions and even conflict among students.
If passed, Senate Bill 106 would require every district to draft a formal policy that limits phone use during class time and includes clear expectations, enforcement guidelines, and consequences.
While some critics call the legislation government overreach, Buckson says it's up to each district to decide what works best for their students.
“The job of this bill isn't to say get rid of yours and do ours. It's to say: make sure yours is effective."
Buckson believes it’s a simple, cost-free step toward improving classroom focus and student success.
“We have measures in place that we can implement that can improve learning that don't cost money. And this is one of them."
Hoping to tap into a solution sooner rather than later, Buckson says he hopes the bill will be heard this coming Wednesday. If not, he expects it to be heard in early May, after lawmakers return from break.