BREAKING: A new poll reveals that a significant 66% of Massachusetts parents are in favor of a statewide ban on cellphones and smartwatches during school hours. This comes as lawmakers deliberate the future of digital devices in classrooms, with a bill currently under consideration.
The poll, released today by the Boston-based nonprofit The MassINC Polling Group, surveyed nearly 900 parents of students in grades six through twelve between October 21 and November 12, 2023. Notably, 44% of parents expressed strong support for the ban, highlighting a growing consensus on the issue.
Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, Attorney General Andrea Campbell, and the state’s largest teachers unions have rallied behind the potential ban, emphasizing the urgent need to reduce distractions and improve student mental health. “Cellphone use in our schools is undeniably fueling distraction and undermining meaningful learning,” stated Jennie Williamson, state director of EdTrust in Massachusetts.
This poll emerges amid increasing pressure on state leaders, particularly after the state Senate voted in favor of the ban last July. However, House leadership remains hesitant to fully embrace the legislation. Speaker Ron Mariano hinted last month that the cellphone ban could be prioritized in upcoming educational discussions.
The findings show that around 88% of the parents surveyed report that their children possess smartphones. While a majority, 63%75% of Asian American and Pacific Islander parents backing the ban, followed closely by 67% of white parents, 66% of Latino parents, and 61% of Black parents. The support correlates with education levels, standing at 74% for parents with a bachelor’s degree and 73% for those with advanced degrees, compared to 61% for parents with some college education and 54% for those with a high school diploma or less.
As discussions continue, this poll underscores the pressing need for legislative action. Parents are increasingly voicing their concerns about the impact of digital distractions on their children’s education. The overwhelming support should provide lawmakers with the momentum needed to push this bill forward, a critical step towards fostering an environment conducive to learning.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as Massachusetts weighs the potential impacts of a cellphone ban in schools.
