In an effort to reduce distractions and improve student learning, NJ Governor Phil Murphy has unveiled a proposal to allocate $3 million in his upcoming state budget for New Jersey school districts to implement cellphone bans in classrooms.
This announcement follows the Governor’s previous support for such measures during his State of the State address, where he emphasized the need to tackle cell phones’ negative impacts on youth mental health and academic focus.
Murphy’s visit to Woodbury Junior-Senior High School in Gloucester County on February 19 helped highlight the initiative.
The school, which has already adopted a cellphone ban, uses Yondr pouches to securely store students’ phones throughout the school day.
This system prevents distractions by locking devices in pouches from the first bell to the last.
During his visit, the Governor observed the positive feedback from students and teachers, noting improved focus, better engagement, and an overall sense of relief among students who no longer had to contend with constant phone notifications.
The $3 million in funding will assist districts in acquiring the necessary materials, such as lockable pouches, to ensure phones are securely stowed away during school hours.
This initiative comes alongside a legislative effort, with bills currently moving through the state legislature that would require the Department of Education to establish clear guidelines for districts on implementing such policies.
The legislation aims to restrict the use of cellphones, smartwatches, and social media during the school day while still allowing exceptions in emergencies or for health-related concerns.
Murphy’s plan is part of a broader trend, with several states—including New York, California, and Florida—either considering or already passing similar legislation.
The Governor and other state leaders are particularly concerned about the role that excessive screen time and social media use play in the mental health crisis affecting youth today.
Reports indicate that cell phones in schools contribute to academic distractions, increase incidents of cyberbullying, and exacerbate feelings of isolation and anxiety among students.
While many school districts, including Woodbury, Cherry Hill, and Ramsey, have already instituted cellphone bans or limitations, the response has been mixed.
Some parents and students voice concerns about emergency phone access, with some arguing that the bans can hinder communication during critical moments.
For example, Amber Surguy, a parent from Woodbury, expressed concerns about her ability to reach her child in case of an emergency.
However, Governor Murphy and other advocates point out that emergency use will still be allowed under the new policies as long as the devices are not used for non-urgent purposes.
The cellphone ban at Woodbury Junior-Senior High has been in place for several months, and students’ reports suggest that it has had a positive impact.
Students indicated they were able to concentrate more effectively without the temptation to check their phones.
One student shared that the ban gave her “a free mind,” allowing her to focus fully on her education.
Teachers also reported noticing higher levels of engagement and fewer disruptions during class time.
However, the initial adjustment period wasn’t without challenges.
At first, some students struggled with the transition, experiencing emotional distress as they adapted to being disconnected from their devices.
Over time, however, the complaints diminished, and students began to appreciate the benefits of being phone-free during the day.
Governor Murphy’s push to accelerate these policies with state funding is seen as a way to encourage other districts to follow suit.
The $3 million investment aims to remove financial barriers, ensuring that all districts, regardless of their resources, can adopt policies that promote a more focused, less distracted learning environment.
Districts will be able to use the funds for a variety of tools to reduce distractions, with Yondr pouches being one of the most popular options.
The conversation around cellphone bans is also being shaped by ongoing debates about their broader societal impact.
Experts like Laura Buscemi, a licensed professional counselor in Cherry Hill, have noted that restricting cellphone use in schools can help mitigate the damaging effects of excessive screen time on children’s mental health.
Social media, in particular, has been linked to increased anxiety, body dysmorphia, and other mental health issues among students.
Critics of the bans, including some parents, argue that restricting phone use entirely is a step too far, especially when it comes to emergency situations.
However, advocates believe that the overall benefits of reduced distractions and improved student well-being outweigh these concerns.
Governor Murphy’s proposal, if approved, will be part of the 2026 fiscal year state budget, which is set to be unveiled on Tuesday.
While the funding has yet to be approved by the state legislature, Murphy is confident that it will receive broad support, especially in light of the growing awareness of the negative impact of phones on student learning and mental health.
As more states and districts across the country take similar steps to reduce cellphone use in classrooms, New Jersey’s initiative could serve as a model for others looking to tackle this modern challenge head-on.
With the legislation moving through the state Senate and Assembly and Murphy’s proposal to provide district funding, it seems clear that New Jersey is on track to become a leader in addressing cellphone use in schools.
Whether this policy will be universally embraced remains to be seen, but the conversation about balancing technology with the need for focus and mental health is certainly far from over.
