For me, “cell phone” is a misnomer. It’s rarely used to call people. 

In my generation, when we hear the word “phone,” we think of talking on a device. For more than 100 years, that’s what we used it for. But these devices aren’t being used to call your friend or call home but rather to access a variety of information, videos and social media. They’re actually a smart computer device and it’s in the hands of every kid. 

In June, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued an advisory, cautioning social media poses a threat to children and more than three hours a day on the apps doubles the risk of mental health problems. He suggested Congress put a label on social media, similar to the Surgeon General’s warning labels on cigarettes and alcohol. A study from the Yale School of Medicine shows kids who spend most of their time on their devices were statistically more likely to exhibit higher levels of depression, anxiety and social anxiety. High users of devices show less curiosity, self-control, and emotional stability, according to Preventative Medicine Reports. 

Long hours of screen time are associated with lower well-being. 

We’re unsure right now what direct impact the nonacademic use of technology in the classroom is having on learning - but it’s worth exploring. Officials at a charter school in the greater Kansas City area curtailed the use of students’ cell phones and scores on state assessments improved in English and math in 2023. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 77% of schools have a policy prohibiting cell phones for nonacademic use. However, according to a study from Common Sense Media, 97% of students use their phones during the school day. 

At least three states across the U.S. have banned cell phones in schools, including Florida, South Carolina and Indiana. Other states have created phone policies and early childhood screen limits. It’s time we take a serious look on the use of cell phones and social media in schools here in Kansas. 

The Kansas State Board of Education has charged me with forming a blue-ribbon task force to create guidance for addressing the non-academic use of cell phones in our pre-K-12 classrooms as well as the impact excessive screen time is having on our children. 

In addition to at least two state board members, the 30-member task force will be comprised of students, classroom teachers, administrators and other education representatives. A student and principal will serve as co-chairs. 

The task force, which I’m expecting to be in place by August, will develop recommendations to be considered by the state board by at least November, no later than December. 

Up until the past 15 years or so, we have witnessed what has been a fairly slow evolution of the phone. However, technology is changing our phones so fast, we don’t really know what the consequences will ultimately be.  

I think everyone is recognizing the harmful effects smart phones are having on our children. The question is, what are we as parents, educators and elected officials willing to do about it? I’m hoping we will start to find some answers soon.