New state law bans cell phones in the classroom

WEST MONROE, La. (KTVE/KARD)–A new measure that bans Louisiana students from having cell phones on their person is now law after Governor Jeff Landry signed it.

Bob Calhoun is a Monroe family medicine physician, and he is in favor of the new law banning cell phones in schools for all Louisiana students.

It’s a good compromise between having access to a phone in case of an emergency and not having distractions in the classroom.

Bob Calhoun, Family Medicine Physician

He says that studies have shown that when someone has a cell phone on their person, they have more difficulty focusing.

“There is a dopamine addiction that all of us with smart phones, especially which are designed to repeatedly stimulate us. In a way that gives us a small burst of energy.”

Adam Hunsucker with Ouachita Parish Schools says that they already had a cell phone policy in place, but this new law takes it a step further preventing students from using a phone even with permission from teachers or administrators.

It’s the world we live in now with cell phones it’s become an appendage almost. It’s a part of who we are and how we function during the course of the day.

Adam Hunsucker, Ouachita Parish Schools Coordinator of Community Engagement

Students would still be able to bring their phones but powered off and keep it in their book bag, locker or bin.

Calhoun says that he does consider the case, however unlikely, that an emergency such as a school shooter is on a campus and how families in that situation would want to contact each other.

“The exception to the rule shouldn’t be the dictator of policy. Is it possible that an emergency situation might happen? Absolutely.”

Hunsucker also addresses such a situation.

“We hope we never face that with an emergency, but I can tell you speaking for our district out communications team will be in contact with parents. We will be getting out information as it comes in.”

Calhoun stresses that overuse of cell phones could have a detrimental effect on students.

“Having phones in the classroom especially for developing minds is pretty destructive.”

And the new law seeks to prevent phones from being a distraction or a temptation to be used to cheat in a learning environment.