Why Massachusetts Parents Are Backing School Phone Bans

To say I am surprised by a poll indicating strong parental support for restricting student cell phone use in Massachusetts public schools would be an understatement.

While I have long supported restrictions, callers to my program have pushed back, leading me to believe the idea was unpopular with moms and dads who feel a need to remain tethered to their kiddos 24/7.

The times, our society, and our culture have changed since I was in school. We didn't have mass shootings back then. I get it.

When parents call me, they say they need to know their kids are just a speed dial away in the event of an emergency. I get that, too.

That's why I was stunned to see a new University of Massachusetts Amherst/WCVB Poll showing considerable support for cell phone restrictions in the Commonwealth's public schools. That support has remained steady.

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What the New Poll Shows

When asked if they "support or oppose restricting the use of cell phones by public school students during official school hours except in the case of an emergency or if the student has a medical condition or disability," 75 percent either strongly (48 percent) or somewhat supported (27 percent) restrictions, while 14 percent were unsure.

When asked the same question in February, 76 percent strongly (48 percent) or somewhat supported (28 percent) restrictions, while 13 percent were undecided.

A year ago, 75 percent either strongly (50 percent) or somewhat supported (25 percent) cellphone restrictions, with 13 percent unsure.

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Why Schools Push for Cell Phone Restrictions

School officials have long argued that cell phones are a distraction in the classroom and can be disruptive. I was not surprised to see legislation calling for cell phone restrictions land on Beacon Hill, as many local communities, including New Bedford, have already implemented their own cell phone restrictions.