The debate over the proposed Distraction-Free Education Act in Georgia is gaining attention as lawmakers discuss its potential impact on schools. Sponsored by State Rep. Scott Hilton, House Bill 340 would mandate that public schools, specifically those serving Kindergarten through 8th grade, secure students’ phones during school hours to reduce distractions.
The bill encourages local school districts to develop their own methods for implementing the policy.
Many districts, like Marietta City Schools, have already adopted similar measures. Marietta Middle Schools, for example, have implemented a system using Yondr pouches, where students store their phones in a secure, locked pouch until the end of the day or in emergencies.
Superintendent Grant Rivera shared positive feedback, noting that students and teachers have experienced fewer distractions, allowing for more engagement and interaction.
This approach has sparked a conversation about the value of in-person communication and minimizing distractions in the classroom, though it remains to be seen how widely the measure could be adopted across the state.
The bill also introduces technology like the Detezo app, which can create phone-free environments through QR codes.