Buzzing notifications, scrolling screens, and constant distractions may be a thing of the past in Kansas schools.

Kansas students will soon face a major change to their daily routine: phones will be completely removed from their possession during the school day. Governor Laura Kelly recently signed Senate Substitute for House Bill 2299, a statewide policy banning the use of personal electronic devices during school hours.

The new law requires both public and accredited private schools across Kansas to prohibit student use of devices such as cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, and tablets while on school grounds during school hours. Devices must be turned off and securely stored, though school-issued technology will still be allowed for academic use.

Supporters of the bill say the goal is simple: to reduce distractions and improve student outcomes.

“In our rapidly changing world, technology dominates our lives, and that’s why it’s essential that we reduce distractions in the classroom,” Governor Laura Kelly said at the bill signing on March 19.

The legislation received support from both democrats and republicans, with lawmakers emphasizing both academic and personal benefits. Senate Majority Leader Chase Blasi pointed to the challenges many students face when trying to stay focused in a digital world.

“As a father, I see firsthand how technology can impact kids’ ability to learn and grow,” Blasi said. “The bill puts Kansas students first.”

The policy also reflects growing concern over the impact of social media and screen time on young people. Senate Democratic Leader Dinah Sykes noted that research continues to link excessive phone use to lower concentration and increased mental health challenges.

“It is time that we got cell phones out of Kansas classrooms,” said Sykes. “Our kids deserve policies that prioritize their health and strengthen their future.”

Students, however, have mixed reactions to the new rule, though many lean toward opposition.

“I think it won’t help kids focus because a lot of people use their phones to take mental breaks instead of 24/7 work all the time,” freshman Tessa Botticella said.

Several students say phones are an important part of their daily routine, whether for staying in contact with parents, listening to music between classes, or taking quick mental breaks. Some feel the policy is too strict and removes a level of independence they are used to having.

“I feel like the concern is not being able to reach my parents, like emergencies, if I want to be called out or something, it’s not easily accessible anymore,” junior Brooke Mitchell said.

Others question how realistic the rule will be, wondering if students will fully follow it or simply find ways around it.

“Students will find a way around the self-phone policy no matter what it is,” sophomore Abby Ely said. “Students like to have access to talk to their friends or family when needed.”

While student opinions vary, many teachers see the policy in a different light.

Educators say phones have long been one of the biggest distractions in the classroom, often pulling students’ attention away from lessons. With devices removed, some teachers expect to spend less time redirecting behavior and more time focusing on instruction.

“Not having phones from the time school starts until the last bell will absolutely change the culture of our school,” English teacher Kimberly Lilley said. “It will take time for everyone to adjust, but I believe it can only help.”

Some teachers dont just have concerns about instructions, but they have concerns about students’ well-being.

“I feel bad for students who can’t live without their phones,” Lilley said. “They have no idea what they are missing. Research shows that the mental health epidemic aligns with our social media addictions.”

“As a result of the new law, West and the entire district now face another funding issue. It is what we call in AP Government an ‘unfunded mandate,’” history teacher Marie Hoeven said. “Schools now have to procure thousands of secured, individual holding structures and systems for phones without state support.”
Providing secure storage for student phones across Kansas is expected to cost about $13.4 million, based on state budget estimates.

“This comes as the federal government has cut special education funding, making the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) a largely unfunded mandate as well,” Hoeven said. “Districts are planning significant cuts to other programs to pay for much-needed special education programming and now all-day phone safes.”

In addition to restrictions on in-class devices, the law also limits how school employees can communicate with students, banning the use of social media for official school purposes.

Representative Angela Martinex described the measure as a step toward a healthier school environment.

“This is about creating a space where kids can focus on learning and simply being kids again,” Martinex said.

As schools begin implementing the policy changes, they are expected to leave their phones in their car. Enforcing the rule consistently and helping students adjust to a phone-free school day will take time. Still, lawmakers remain confident the long-term benefits will outweigh the initial difficulties.

Representative Jason Goetz emphasized that the work is just beginning.

“Passing the bill is not the finish line, it’s the starting point,” Goetz said. “Now we work with schools to make sure it succeeds in real classrooms, with real students.”