US schools implement stricter phone and screen policies

Schools in California and Wisconsin are implementing or facing pressure regarding technology use in classrooms. In California, the Phone Free School Act requires districts to adopt policies limiting or banning phones during the school day by July 1, 2026. At M-A, enforcement has intensified, with teachers increasingly using phone pockets to ensure devices remain away during instructional time, though students may still use them during lunch and passing periods.

In Wisconsin, new laws have already prohibited cell phone use during class time since July 1. However, the parent group Parent Check on Tech is advocating for even stricter limits on all digital screens. The group is petitioning the Madison Metropolitan School District to prioritize physical books and paper over Chromebooks, suggesting device-free classrooms until second grade and delaying one-to-one laptop programs until high school. This push follows district reports showing student screen time significantly exceeds recommended instructional limits.