Lake Oswego School District will implement cell phone ban this school year

PORTLAND, Ore. ( KOIN ) — Lake Oswego School District is the latest to prohibit cell phones in the classroom for its upcoming academic year.

In a message shared on Wednesday morning, Superintendent Jennifer Schiele informed families that cell phones will be banned during the school day at all schools — starting with the 2024-2025 term.

“Implementing this change is rooted in a commitment to our students’ academic success and overall well-being,” Schiele wrote.

According to the superintendent, the decision came after administration conducted “extensive research” on the impacts of cell phones in academic settings.

She specifically referred to research from the Pew Research Center , which found that 95% of teenagers have access to smartphones. She also cited the American Psychological Association’s findings that linked excessive smartphone and social media use to higher levels of anxiety and stress among adolescents.

Additional data from Common Sense Media revealed that about 50% of teens “feel addicted” to their phones, and 78% of survey respondents said they check their devices at least hourly.

Schiele said LOSD’s school board is still finalizing its cell phone policy. Once the ban goes into effect, guardians are encouraged to contact the main office if they need to reach their children for any reason.

However, the district will still allow students to use their cell phones in certain circumstances.

“Exceptions may be granted for health, safety, or emergency reasons with prior approval from the principal or when use is stipulated in a student’s individualized education program (IEP) or 504 plan,” Schiele said. “Families’ support will be vital in making this transition smooth and effective.”

Portland Public Schools is also considering banning cell phones within the next year.

Under the proposed policy, students will only be allowed to use their phones before or after school, and during lunch. The school board would require devices to be shut down and stored away during the day.

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