Senator Beth Mizell discusses the evolution and impact of Bill SB2074, which mandates that students put away or turn off their cell phones during school hours. The bill, which has gained significant attention since the start of the school year, aims to improve students’ focus and reduce distractions in the classroom. Mizell explains that the idea originated from an education conference where the negative impact of cell phones on students’ learning was highlighted. Despite initial skepticism from her colleagues, Mizell was determined to push the bill forward.
The bill’s development involved consultations with the education department and staff, and it ultimately retained its core requirement for cell phones to be put away or turned off. Mizell notes that while there had been previous policies encouraging schools to limit cell phone use, they lacked the necessary state support for effective implementation.
Mizell emphasizes the potential benefits of the bill, including reducing cheating and improving social interactions among students. She shares an example from Indiana, where a similar policy led to students engaging more in face-to-face conversations and experiencing less stress from constantly monitoring their phones. This change also addresses the need for students to develop soft skills and better prepare for adulthood.
The conversation also touches on the broader implications of the bill, such as helping students learn to manage their phone use from a young age. Mizell and the interviewer discuss the challenges of phone addiction, even among adults, and the potential long-term benefits of teaching children to balance their phone use. Mizell expresses hope that the bill will lead to significant positive changes in students’ behavior and learning environments.