As phone policies continue to spark debate in schools nationwide, students remain divided on whether devices are a safety net or a setback to learning. Michigan is also stepping into the debate. In February, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a bipartisan bill banning smartphone use during instructional time in all K-12 public schools, starting in the 2026–27 school year.
The law requires districts to create and publish their own enforcement policies, while still allowing exceptions for emergencies, medical needs and teacher-approved academic use. Students can still carry their phones and use them outside of class, but the goal is to reduce distractions and improve focus during lessons.
For many, the issue starts with peace of mind. According to Pew Research Center, a majority of teens say their phones help them feel more connected and secure throughout the day; something students like Grace Bacall ’28 says extends into the classroom.
“I like having phones in class because it makes me feel safe knowing I can always text my loved ones in case of emergencies,” Bacall said. “My biggest priority is my family. I always need to make sure they are okay, and they need to make sure that I am okay.”
However, that sense of security can come at a cost. While phones offer quick access to information, some students acknowledge they can also interrupt focus and limit deeper thinking. Pew research reports that about 72 percent of high school teachers consider cell phone distraction a major problem in classrooms, reinforcing concerns students themselves recognize.
“Sometimes students just search up answers instead of thinking,” Jean Turner ’28 said. “But if you actually read what you look up, it can help you learn new things too.”
Even so, students point out that phones can serve practical purposes when other resources fall short. Whether checking the time or accessing quick information, devices can fill small gaps during the school day.
“A benefit is being able to tell the time when the clock doesn’t work or when you don’t have your computer out,” Turner said.
Ultimately, many students say the issue is less about the presence of phones and more about how they are used. Idan Dawood ’28 said they can be used in the classroom with clear expectations, they believe phones can coexist with learning.
“It depends on what you are using your phone for,” Dawood said. “Using it for cheating is wrong, but using it for safety or communication should be allowed.”
“If you use it the right way, it shouldn’t be a problem,” Dawood added.
