Massachusetts Parents Overwhelmingly Back School Cellphone Ban
A recent poll has found that nearly two-thirds of Massachusetts parents support banning cellphones and smartwatches in schools, with 66% backing the idea. The survey, conducted by Boston-based nonprofit The MassINC Polling Group, also revealed that a significant majority - 44% - of respondents would "strongly" support such a ban.
The poll comes as state lawmakers weigh their options on the issue, which has gained momentum in recent months. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Attorney General Andrea Campbell, and two major teachers unions have all expressed support for a ban, citing concerns over distractions caused by digital devices during school hours and the negative impact on students' mental health.
Parenting groups are also urging lawmakers to take action, arguing that cellphones can be a significant distraction in classrooms. "Cellphone use in our schools is undeniably fueling distraction and undermining meaningful learning," said Jennie Williamson, state director of EdTrust in Massachusetts. The organization has been vocal about the issue, emphasizing the importance of legislative action.
Interestingly, nearly 900 parents with children aged six to 12 were surveyed for the poll, highlighting the broad support for the ban across different demographics. Asian American and Pacific Islander parents showed the highest level of support at 75%, while Black parents made up 61% in favor. Parents' education levels also played a role, with those holding bachelor's degrees or higher showing strong backing (74%) compared to those with high school diplomas or less (54%).
While there are still debates within state leadership about how to move forward on the issue, the poll suggests that parents across Massachusetts are increasingly vocal in their support for banning cellphones and smartwatches from schools.
A recent poll has found that nearly two-thirds of Massachusetts parents support banning cellphones and smartwatches in schools, with 66% backing the idea. The survey, conducted by Boston-based nonprofit The MassINC Polling Group, also revealed that a significant majority - 44% - of respondents would "strongly" support such a ban.
The poll comes as state lawmakers weigh their options on the issue, which has gained momentum in recent months. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Attorney General Andrea Campbell, and two major teachers unions have all expressed support for a ban, citing concerns over distractions caused by digital devices during school hours and the negative impact on students' mental health.
Parenting groups are also urging lawmakers to take action, arguing that cellphones can be a significant distraction in classrooms. "Cellphone use in our schools is undeniably fueling distraction and undermining meaningful learning," said Jennie Williamson, state director of EdTrust in Massachusetts. The organization has been vocal about the issue, emphasizing the importance of legislative action.
Interestingly, nearly 900 parents with children aged six to 12 were surveyed for the poll, highlighting the broad support for the ban across different demographics. Asian American and Pacific Islander parents showed the highest level of support at 75%, while Black parents made up 61% in favor. Parents' education levels also played a role, with those holding bachelor's degrees or higher showing strong backing (74%) compared to those with high school diplomas or less (54%).
While there are still debates within state leadership about how to move forward on the issue, the poll suggests that parents across Massachusetts are increasingly vocal in their support for banning cellphones and smartwatches from schools.
. seriously though, it's nice to see parents finally waking up and realizing that those phones aren't helping with learning at all... I mean, who needs a phone during school hours? 
. guess this means our future gen is going to have to survive on their own (aka learn basic math without Google) 
.
! 75% of Asian American and Pacific Islander parents support a cellphone ban in schools? That's amazing 
. I can see why, though - it makes total sense that digital distractions would affect all students equally, regardless of their background. Interesting 
. It'll be interesting to see how this plays out in the state legislature.
OMG, can you even believe it? 66% of MA parents think we should ban cellphones in schools 
And let's be real, those Asian American parents are the most level-headed 
, like what's wrong with letting kids have some freedom? I mean, they're basically being forced into a digital detox just because adults can't be bothered to manage their own lives... It's not like cellphones are the root of all evil or anything! And what about the tech-savviness and online skills that kids learn from using these devices? Are we really gonna make them start using ancient maps and asking teachers for answers on everything? 
The fact that some parents think this is a good idea just shows they're out of touch with reality...
I mean, can you blame parents for wanting to ban cellphones in schools? It's crazy how much they can distract us, especially during class time. I've had friends who just can't focus when their phone is ringing or buzzing... it's like they're constantly being pulled away from the lesson.
I think it's super reasonable to ban cellphones and smartwatches in schools, especially during class hours 
The fact that most parents in Massachusetts agree with this idea just goes to show that people want kids to focus on their studies and develop good study habits. 
and yeah its def hard 2 focus in class when everyone's glued to their screens 
plus mental health is a big deal these days so if it can help reduce that stress id be down for it 
. I think parents are right to be concerned about this stuff. We need to encourage our kids to focus on learning and being present, not constantly scrolling through social media 