SAFIJA SHATKU
Clubs Editor
On January 14, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation officially restricting use of cellphones and other internet-enabled devices in K-12 schools for the 2026-2027 school year. However, the bill leaves students wondering how districts will implement it and how it will affect students throughout New Jersey.
Bill (S-3695), introduced in September 2024, will ban or limit the use of smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other internet-enabled devices during school hours unless otherwise permitted. “On one hand, I think students should be allowed to have access to their cell phones whenever they need, but I do also understand that phones are making it more difficult [for teachers],” explained senior Nicholas Ferrante.
Fighting against cyberbullying, excessive phone use, and negative effects on mental health and academic performance serves as Governor Murphy’s main goal with this bill. “I think it would be really effective, but kids will try to do everything in their power to not let it happen,” said senior Stephanie Rigler.
Many students think this bill will have a positive effect on schools and their students by reducing classroom distractions, decreasing screen time, increasing social engagement, and more. “One of the biggest issues in classrooms is the use of AI,” stated senior Adayah Setshwane. “I think [the ban] will help students do work without using AI or trying to cheat on tests.”
Conversely, other students believe the bill will result in many challenges, such as student frustration, rebellion, and safety concerns. “Many might feel like it’s unfair and annoying, especially if they use their phones to be organized or just keep [in] touch with friends throughout the day,” said senior Emma Wong.
Various concerns about how students will grapple with the ban have arisen, especially after they grew familiar with flexible rules regarding phone usage. “Students can cope with this ban by trying to be more social during breaks, [or they can] try finding alternatives like books or trying to stay focused,” said Setshwane.
The New Jersey Board of Education will release specific guidelines for local districts sometime in March. Then, schools will design official rules to put in place for September 2026. “I want to have a student, parent, and teacher committee to help guide us into what the cell phone ban will look like,” said Interim Principal Sally Fazio. “I don’t want to make this decision on an island. That is very important to me.”
Posted on February 4, 2026
Photos by Safija Shatku
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