Illinois governor pushes to remove cell phones from classrooms

(The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has amplified his support for mandates that would require school districts to limit cell phone use during classroom instruction.
“Other independent evaluations have shown phones increase harm to social and mental health, foster academic dishonesty, and create distractions
during instruction, all leading to poor academic performance and declines in well-being,” Pritzker said.
The governor said school districts in Champaign, Peoria and Springfield have already implemented policies to limit cell phone use.
Pritzker encouraged support for House Bill 2975, filed by state Rep. Curtis Tarver, D-Chicago, and Senate Bill 2427, filed by state Sen. Cristina Castro, D-Elgin.
“We’re setting simply a minimum standard. We want students to be able to pay attention in class to their teacher, to learn in class, to work together with other students and not be on their phones while they’re trying to learn,” Pritzker said.
The proposed ban includes several exceptions, including emergencies or in response to imminent threats. Also exempt would be situations when a teacher or instructor has authorized the student to use a wireless communication device for educational purposes, when a licensed physician determines that the possession or use of a wireless communication device is necessary for the health or well-being of the student, or to fulfill an Individualized Education Plan or 504 plan.