By Moran Gooding, Kaylee Scheckel, and Hayleigh Spears
With a new statewide policy set to take effect next fall, Anderson County High School students are already sharing their opinions on cell phone use during the school day.
On March 19, 2026, Kansas lawmakers passed House Bill 2299, often referred to as a “bell-to-bell” cell phone policy. The law requires public and accredited private schools to adopt policies restricting student cell phone use throughout the entire school day, including during class time, passing periods, and lunch. Schools must create and submit their enforcement plans before the policy goes into effect in the upcoming school year.
Supporters of the law say it will help reduce distractions, improve academic performance, and create a more focused learning environment. However, many students are unsure how the change will affect their daily routines. To better understand student perspectives, several ACHS students were asked about their phone use and their thoughts on the upcoming ban.
Junior Xavier Carver said he averages about four hours of screen time per day. He expressed concern about the policy, explaining that he enjoys having his phone at school to play games with friends and stay entertained during downtime.
Another junior, Shawn Barker, reported using his phone about 10 hours per week, mainly for calling people. He also opposed the ban, noting that he likes listening to music during the school day and feels the restriction is unnecessary.
Senior Lexi Nichols, who will graduate this year, also shared her thoughts. “I think it is very stupid, and I think students will find a way around it no matter what the school does,” she said. Nichols reported using her phone frequently at school, averaging five to six hours per day.
The new law reflects a growing national trend, as more states move to limit cell phone use in schools. While some students believe the policy goes too far, others acknowledge it could help reduce distractions in the classroom.
English and Journalism teacher Mrs. Sigel expressed support for the new policy, “I don’t think most students can even imagine a time when cell phones didn’t exist in schools. I am glad I didn’t have to worry about people with smartphones when I was in high school – high school is hard enough without worrying about a classmate taking snaps (Snapchat) of you and sending them to other students throughout the day.”
As the policy is implemented next fall, students and staff at ACHS will need to adjust to the new expectations. Whether the ban improves focus or creates new challenges remains to be seen, but it is clear that it will significantly change the school day experience.
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