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Washington D.C. – A new proposal has been introduced at the D.C. Council meeting that would prohibit all devices such as cellphones, tablets, smartwatches and gaming devices in the city’s public schools and charter schools.
The proposed bill, which needs support from just two more council members to pass, is aimed at improving student focus and social skills during school hours. According to data, less than a third of students can read at grade level, while less than a quarter are proficient in math, sparking concerns about the impact that cellphones may have on learning.
“We need to work with our families, schools, and parents to ensure we’re setting kids up for success,” said D.C. council member Brooke Pinto, who authored the bill. “That means making sure they’re focused in school, engaged with their peers, and learning effectively. You can’t do that when you’re glued to your phone.”
The proposal is not without its challenges as some parents have expressed concerns about being unable to reach their children during school hours. However, others believe that a ban would be beneficial for students’ social skills and overall well-being.
Details of the bill’s implementation are still being worked out, including where devices would be stored during the day. It is likely that school officials will have the discretion to establish secure storage rooms or locked pouches for student devices.
Pinto emphasized that she does not want the burden of enforcing the ban to fall on teachers and instead wants school officials to handle it.
The proposal aims to encourage students to socialize more between classes rather than scrolling through their phones, which Pinto believes is an essential aspect of human development at a young age.
This bill follows similar restrictions implemented by local governments and school districts across the country.
Source: http://www.foxnews.com
