Arizona Schools Tackle Classroom Phone Use, Witness Impact on Youth Mental Health

In an era of rampant technology, Dana Ramos, principal of Lowell Elementary School in Phoenix, has instituted policies to limit cell phone usage during school hours.

Ramos, an 11-year veteran educator, transitioned from teaching to administration. Through her career, she has seen both the benefits and drawbacks of technology in classrooms.

“Technology can be incredibly useful,” Ramos disclosed. “Phones can offer access to resources and aid in various projects. However, they’re frequently a distraction.”

According to a 2023 Common Sense Media report, 97% of students aged 11 to 17 use their phones during school, spending over half their time on social media platforms like YouTube, which diverts their attention from educational activities.

Across Arizona, schools are acting to reduce these distractions. Limiting phone use could also mitigate some negative mental health effects linked to social media.

“Social media heightens insecurities among young people,” said Katey McPherson, a youth mental health advocate. “It adds layers of comparison with peers and celebrities.”

A 2022 survey by Digital Wellness Lab revealed that 46% of adolescents aged 13-17 felt social media worsened their body image. “Middle schoolers are especially sensitive to peer perception,” Ramos noted.

Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued an advisory calling for actions to minimize the adverse effects of social media on youth. He suggested warning labels on platforms to inform users of potential mental health risks.

McPherson highlighted that it’s challenging to blame social media alone. “Phones contribute to stress-related issues like headaches and stomach aches due to conflicts and exclusions happening online,” she said.

Nevertheless, McPherson acknowledged the value of social media in connecting youths and helping them explore opportunities. “It’s not all bad; it can be a powerful tool for personal development,” she added.

Yet, this connectivity can be problematic. “School-related issues follow kids home via their phones,” Ramos warned. In response, schools are taking stricter measures. In 2023, Mesa Public Schools even filed a lawsuit against major social media companies, citing harm to youth mental health.

Enforcing cell phone bans is challenging. Lowell Elementary’s handbook requires phones to be off and stored in backpacks, but enforcement remains tough. “For students, their phones are very personal,” Ramos explained.

Phone-related frustrations have driven some teachers to exit the profession. A high school biology teacher in Tucson left his job, citing students’ phone addiction as a reason.

“Teachers are exhausted from battling phone distractions,” McPherson said. “Administrators need to take a firmer stand.”

Legislative attempts haven’t fared well. In April, Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed a bill aimed at restricting phone and internet use, arguing that schools are already managing the issue.

State Superintendent Tom Horne criticized the veto, urging parents to advocate for phone bans in schools.

Parents play a crucial role in moderating their children’s screen time. “Parents need to understand that phones in classrooms are a huge distraction,” Ramos emphasized.

McPherson advised parents to be role models. “Children mimic their parents’ device behavior,” she said. “Demonstrate responsible usage.”