In years past, there were different rules in each classroom when it came to phones. More recently, House Bill 1160 requires public schools to implement a “phone-free” policy during instructional time. This bill has caused controversy amongst all students, but what do teachers think about the ban?
Supporters of House Bill 1160 argued that constant phone use was a growing distraction, pointing to research on lower test scores, shorter attention spans and rising mental health concerns linked to screen time. Lawmakers said the ban would give students a chance to focus during class, while critics worried it was too strict and would be difficult to enforce.
North Dakota isn’t alone in making the move. Across the country, states like Florida and Indiana have also introduced phone bans in schools, reflecting a national debate over how much technology belongs in the classroom.
Moreover, it has been passed and students and staff are this year’s guinea pigs.
Many teachers have adjusted their phone usage in class to promote the ban by influence. Like students, some teachers have installed Spotify on their computers and logged into their Facebook accounts.
“At the same time, I have responsibilities beyond this job; if I have an emergency going on with one of my kids, I need to be able to respond to that. So, am I going to shut my phone off and pack it away? No, but I was never one to be on my phone much,” AP English teacher Mrs. Fode said.
While the bill initially sparked debate, most teachers say students have adjusted more smoothly than expected. Rather than protesting or finding ways around the rule, students seem to have accepted the new normal.
“I would go upstairs and get my lunch out of the fridge, and you would see kids just curled up in a cranny with their headphones in watching TikTok videos on their phone,” AP US History teacher Mr. Cavanaugh said. “Now you don’t see that.”
During downtime in class, it has been an adjustment for students to find things to do. AVID teacher Mrs. Sletten has added a ‘No Phone No Problem’ station in the back of the classroom.
Filled with Hiheralds, colored pencils and word searches, she’s given students things to do during their downtime.
As the first weeks of the phone ban unfold, teachers agree the policy is reshaping daily classroom life — not with rebellion, but with quiet adjustment. Teachers are seeing the benefits, such as witnessing the students being more present and having to discipline them less. “They were just constantly trying to check their phone, I don’t have that anymore, and so I’m seeing kids talk to each other more.” Fode said.