New York City once prohibited phones in schools — Adams should reinstate the ban

Last week, the Los Angeles Unified School District made a significant decision to ban the use of mobile phones by students during school hours. This common-sense move is one that other districts, including New York City, should consider following.

Twenty years ago, mobile phones were banned in all public schools in New York City, a decision that was met with backlash but ultimately led to improvements in student achievement levels.

Despite the ban being reversed by a successor, the public support for mobile phone bans has been growing across the nation and political divides. Teachers have been vocal about the disruptions caused by phones in classrooms, with a large percentage considering it a major problem for learning.

Research shows that the excessive use of phones during school hours can have negative effects on academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being of students.

Implementing district-wide bans on mobile phone use during school hours has shown positive results in other parts of the world, including higher grades, less bullying, and reduced achievement gaps.

Leaders at both state and federal levels are showing support for bans on mobile phones in schools, and individual districts are urged to take action sooner rather than later.

It’s time for schools to prioritize student well-being over mobile phone distractions by implementing comprehensive and consistent bans on phone use during school hours.

Michael R. Bloomberg was mayor of New York from 2002 to 2013. Adapted from Bloomberg.com.