PARMA, Ohio-The Parma City School District has implemented a ban on cell phone use in classrooms, citing distractions and misuse by students. Superintendent Dr. Charles Smialek emphasizes the need for clear policies to regulate technology use in schools. The district’s policy prohibits middle school students from using cell phones altogether and restricts high school students from using them in classrooms.
The Ohio Educators Association supports such limits at the district level, emphasizing the importance of consistency and support for teachers. Ohio legislators are considering a bill, House Bill 250, which would require districts to create policies governing cell phone use during school hours, aiming to minimize distractions and online harassment. Governor Mike DeWine supports the measure, advocating for schools to establish clear policies while allowing flexibility for individual districts.
