LOUISVILLE, Ky. — As the conversation around cellphone use in schools intensifies, Ballard High School in Louisville is the latest to engage parents in shaping a policy on smartphone restrictions. Last week, the school distributed a survey to parents to gauge their opinions on the use of smartphones in schools and the possibility of a phone ban during school hours.
The survey comes in the wake of a new state law passed earlier this year, which mandates that school boards adopt policies that prohibit cellphone use during the school day, with some exceptions. While Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) already has a policy in place addressing cellphone use, some district officials are advocating for a more stringent approach.
Jefferson County School Board member James Craig, whose district includes Ballard High School, has expressed support for tighter restrictions on phone use in schools. Craig pointed to Fern Creek High School’s phone-free model as a potential solution, where students are required to place their phones in lockable pouches at the start of the school day. These pouches can only be opened during designated times, such as lunch.
“I can’t wait to see the results of Ballard’s efforts,” said Craig, who is working on a proposal to update the district’s existing policy. His plan includes forming committees of students and teachers at individual schools to help craft policies that have support across the school community. Craig believes that this approach would encourage widespread buy-in and lead to a more effective phone-free instructional environment.
In response to the issue, local media outlet WDRB asked viewers on Facebook for their thoughts on the matter. The public’s reaction was mixed. One commenter argued that phones should not be used during instructional time but conceded that students should have access to them in case of emergencies. “They shouldn’t be on them during instructional time at all,” the commenter said, “However, given how crazy the world is, they should have access for emergencies.”
On the other hand, some parents felt strongly about the importance of students having their phones on them throughout the day. “Absolutely not!” said one commenter. “My kid will have their phone on their person. With how things are handled and done inside schools, my child will stay protected — and a phone is a way to do so.”
While Ballard High School has not yet released the results of the parent survey, the district continues to consider how to balance safety, learning, and the evolving role of smartphones in student life. The decision to explore a phone ban reflects broader concerns over the impact of smartphones on classroom focus and the need for policies that consider both the educational and safety needs of students.
James Craig’s proposal for a more detailed policy is expected to be presented at the Jefferson County School Board’s meeting later this month, potentially setting the stage for significant changes in how phones are regulated in local schools.
As the discussion continues, it remains to be seen how other schools within the district and beyond will navigate the challenge of integrating modern technology with effective learning environments.
