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North American school digital device regulations

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2026-08-14 11:50 UTC → 2026-08-14 12:02 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Educators and policymakers in North America have begun addressing concerns regarding excessive digital device use in K-12 classrooms. Initial discussions focused on the potential for screen-based instruction to impair cognitive processing and emotional regulation, particularly in early-grade learners. This concern has transitioned into legislative and district-level action across the United States. Several states, including Iowa, Utah, Tennessee, and Alabama, have implemented or directed the creation of age-appropriate technology rules and screen-time standards. Large districts, such as the Los Angeles Unified School District, have moved to institute grade-specific limits on instructional screen time. By the 2026 school year, these efforts have expanded to include widespread cellphone restrictions, with 22 states and the District of Columbia enacting bell-to-bell bans. In August 2026, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) began implementing a new policy affecting its more than 400,000 students. Under a resolution passed in the spring, students in first grade and below are now prohibited from using screens ~~entirely. Limits~~ entirely, with exceptions only for mandated assessments or documented disabilities. For older students, the ~~rest of elementary school are set~~ district will block access to ~~begin in November, with middle~~ social media, YouTube, and ~~high school restrictions following later in the academic year.~~ streaming platforms unless explicitly approved by a teacher. While students will no longer automatically receive devices to take home, families may still request them. The district intends to monitor usage through software installed on school-issued devices. The rollout has met with ~~some~~ resistance from educators. Science teacher Armaghan Khan noted that technology has been “essential for conducting experiments when lab budgets are limited.” Pia Sadaqatmal, the district’s chief academic officer, described the current year as a “transition period” and noted that implementation is not flawless. Furthering the trend, Maryland and California are advancing stricter measures. In Talbot County, Maryland, schools will implement a “No Cell. Bell to Bell.” policy starting August 24, prohibiting cell phones, smartwatches, and earbuds. This move precedes the state-wide requirements of the Joanne C. Benson Maryland Phone-Free Schools Act. In California, Assembly Bill 1644 seeks to establish uniform bell-to-bell smartphone bans for students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

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