New bill proposed to ban cell phones in classrooms

A new bill proposed by North Dakota lawmakers may ban cell phones in classrooms. This bill would affect public school students statewide if House bill 1160, sponsored by West Fargo Republican Jim Jonas, is approved. Jonas is a current school board member and retired West Fargo teacher. He spoke with teachers and administrators, penning this bill in response to their concerns about classroom engagement, academic achievement, and mental health. If approved, bill 1160 would ban cell phones during class, leaving time between periods, and non-instructional time like lunch, for approved usage. Exceptions would include a documented medical need, or a 504 plan that requires a cell phone as an assistive device.