SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — Many school districts across the state are debating whether cell phones should be allowed in schools.

Lawmakers announced Monday that they are proposing a ban on cellphones in schools, and starting in August 2024, districts will have to create their own policies banning phone use.

If the bill passes, counties would have to enact policies allowing the use of telephones.

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Angela Sharp, founder of Focus Beyond Phones, said the issue was a major concern.

“It’s really disheartening; it really makes me sad,” Sharp said.

Sharp believes that mobile phones in schools have a negative impact on students, both academically and socially.

“I am willing to give up the convenience of communicating with my children so they can experience the benefits of a phone-free learning environment,” she said.

Focus Beyond Phones works to raise awareness about the impact of phone use during school hours.

Sharp emphasizes that cooperation between schools and parents is necessary to create a conducive learning environment.

“If we just make some adjustments in collaboration with the school and other parents, we can create a better environment for them to succeed in those areas,” Sharp said. “Even with their technology, we just need to structure it differently.”

The Granite School District already has a ban on cell phones, while the Jordan School District, where Sharp’s child attends, is currently discussing a ban.

“I fear they’re missing out, not just socially, but these kinds of interactions build their confidence,” Sharp said. “Without that confidence, it’s really hard for them to feel good about themselves.”

Focus Beyond Phones is hosting a town hall meeting on Wednesday, September 4th at 7 p.m. in the Mountain Creek Middle School auditorium in South Jordan.

The Jordan School District will discuss cell phone policies during a study session at Tuesday’s board meeting beginning at 4 p.m.

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