State Rep. Nancy DeBoer (R-Holland) yesterday chaired the House Education Committee and advanced a bill aimed at reducing distractions in the classroom by limiting student cell phone use in public schools.

House Bill 4141 would require school districts across Michigan to adopt policies that restrict the use of wireless communication devices during class time, with tailored approaches for each grade level.

“Cell phones are negatively impacting our students’ academic success,” said DeBoer. “As a former teacher, I understand firsthand how essential a focused learning environment is. Our children are the future of our communities, and we must do everything we can to support their education.”

The proposed bill includes the following guidelines:

• Elementary and middle schools would require students to put their phones away for the day and they can only be used before or after school
• High schools would prohibit phone use specifically during instructional time

“Instead of concentrating on their studies, students are often preoccupied with social media and digital distractions,” said DeBoer. “This plan encourages greater learning and academic focus to set students up for long-term success.”

House Bill 4141 now awaits further consideration on the House floor.