Cell Phones in Schools: Changes Parents Want To See This School Year
August 13, 2025
The New Parent Perspective:
Rethinking Cell Phone Policies in Schools
New survey shows what parents expect to see this year
A growing number of parents are calling for schools to take stronger action when it comes to student cell phone use. A recent national survey from Yondr, the company behind the magnetic pouches that lock phones away during the school day, found that 84% of parents believe cell phones are creating major problems in schools.
Parents want change
“Parents now see phone-free learning environments as a must-have, not just a nice-to-have,” said Graham Dugoni, founder and CEO of Yondr. Today’s parents are not only supportive of stricter phone policies — they’re expecting them.
- 89% want schools to implement a long-term plan for managing phone use
- 68% think schools should invest in modern tools to help
- 56% are in favor of either a full-day phone ban or bell-to-bell restrictions
Why Parents Are Concerned
Parents believe that excessive phone use is tied to serious issues affecting their children’s well-being. Top concerns include disengagement, lack of focus (62%), increased anxiety (32%), and feelings of loneliness (25%).
They also identified these specific phone-related challenges they believe are making it harder for schools to function effectively:
- Misuse of phones during the day
- Interruptions during instruction
- Over-reliance on phones affecting social skills
- Teachers unable to control phone use
- Lack of clear guidance for educators
- Students losing phones at school
Next Steps: The call to action
Parents outlined specific steps they’d like to see school leaders take:
- 93% want clear plans in place for emergencies without relying on phones
- 91% want schools to consistently enforce appropriate consequences for violations
- 81% say policies should be shaped with input from child development experts
This research sends a powerful message about helping student mental health
Removing digital disruptions can improve a school’s climate and culture, helping students to connect socially, and feel more emotionally balanced. Putting stronger boundaries in place can help students focus, connect, and feel safe.
Schools that take initiative now will be better equip to create healthier, more productive learning environments for everyone. It can boost student retenction and increase classroom participation.
We want to hear from you. Come to Facebook to tell us:
What’s your school doing about phone use?
Author: Kim Celotto for Respectful Ways
Respectful Ways is a provider of trauma-informed educational resources. We are your partner in making sure your students possess critical-thinking skills in our new AI world.
Our evidence- and research-based PreK-12 curriculum helps students and educators manage issues like bullying, mental health, personal safety, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation. Respectful Ways is proven to raise student academics and increase attendance, while reducing behavioral incidents. We are dedicated to addressing the unique needs of all learners, which enables school districts to implement meaningful, lasting improvements to their school climate and culture. *Data shows improving school culture increases academics.
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