State Rep. Josh Schriver today joined Rochester Community Schools Superintendent Nicholas Russo in spreading the word about the upcoming school year and new rules around cell phones that became law earlier this year. The new cell phone law, passed with massive bipartisan support, makes sure cell phones are not distracting students during instructional time. 

“Our teachers should never have to compete with cell phones for the attention of their students,” said Schriver (R-Oxford). “By limiting the interference of phones in the learning process, we are giving our students a better opportunity to concentrate and participate in the classroom. In addition to keeping the focus on academics, these policies will also help them develop the skills that they will need later in life. Learning to put away a phone and remain focused on a task will allow them to build self-discipline, communication skills, and the ability to work thoroughly without constant digital interruptions.” 

While many schools across Michigan already implement cell phone policies, this will be the first school year where every district across the state will have their own unique set of rules. At a bare minimum, schools must bar students from using cell phones during instructional time. Beyond that, schools can decide whether students should be permitted to use cell phones during passing time, lunch, or other non-instructional times. 

“Nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of our school community,” said Russo. “The law requiring school districts to implement a wireless communications device policy allows us to be intentional about the use of technology in our buildings, and support the focus on learning.” 

Getting cell phones out of classrooms is one of many ongoing initiatives like additional resources for teachers and new literacy support measures to address education in Michigan. Schriver is taking proactive steps like the new cell phone law to make life easier for families and help students perform better in school. 

“Rochester Community Schools guidelines have been adapted by learning level with the goal of reducing distractions, improving student engagement, and enhancing overall well-being,” Russo said. “School and family partnerships remain an important part of creating a change in practice and supporting healthy habits. The significant investment that we’ve made in our safety and security protocols and systems can also serve to help ease the concerns of parents and caregivers who cannot be in direct contact with their child throughout the school day.” 

Schriver encouraged families to talk with their local school officials to understand their district’s unique cell phone policy.