New Jersey encourages schools to restrict cellphone use through a new grant initiative.
The New Jersey Department of Education has launched a new initiative aimed at reducing cellphone usage in schools through the establishment of the Phone-Free Schools Grant Program. This program, revealed in a memo dated October 1, 2023, by Kathy Ehling, the assistant commissioner of the Division of Educational Services, is designed to provide funding to educational institutions for the development and implementation of comprehensive cellphone policies, specifically targeting middle and high school students (grades 6-12).
Under this grant program, each participating school district is eligible for a minimum funding allocation of 0, with the total amount awarded determined by the enrollment figures in grades 6 through 12. The funding can be deployed for various purposes, including the acquisition of storage solutions such as lock pouches and cabinets, as well as the necessary training for staff on the new procedures. Notably, in order to qualify for this funding, school districts must commit to adopting a strict bell-to-bell cellphone policy, which prohibits use during all instructional periods. Policies labeled as “Limited Use” or “Off and Away” do not meet the criteria for eligibility.
District officials interested in partaking in this grant initiative are required to submit their applications and accompanying documentation by October 31, 2023. This move represents a continuation of New Jersey’s efforts to encourage a cellphone-free learning environment, following a trend observed in several schools across the state.
In a notable demonstration of support for this initiative, Governor Phil Murphy visited Woodbury Junior-Senior High School in February 2023, where he observed the use of Yondr pouches, innovative devices that securely lock students’ cellphones and smartwatches during school hours while allowing them to retain possession of their devices. Governor Murphy has positioned himself as a strong advocate for regulating cellphone use in educational settings, highlighting concerns regarding the impact of smartphone usage on student mental health.
During his State of the State Address on January 14, Governor Murphy reinforced his vision for phone-free schools, proposing legislation that received significant applause from the attendees. Legislators and assembly members are united in their concerns, emphasizing the potential negative consequences that excessive cellphone use can have on the well-being of students.
As New Jersey embarks on this initiative to minimize distractions in classrooms, the Phone-Free Schools Grant Program marks a significant step in fostering an educational environment that prioritizes student focus and mental health.
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