Proposed Policy Targets Student Phones

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The Hamilton County School Board is preparing to vote on a proposal that would ban student cell phone use for the entire school day.

The potential policy would go beyond the state’s current requirement, which prohibits phones during instructional time. 

If passed, it would mean personal phones must stay out of sight from the moment students arrive until they leave campus.

Supporters, including Board Chair Joe Smith, say the policy is backed by the majority of school principals and is aimed at reducing distractions, cyberbullying, and classroom disruptions.

Opponents worry about emergency access, transportation coordination, and whether the policy can be enforced consistently across schools. 

Some have also raised concerns about students without lockers or reliable ways to store their phones safely.

Some options being discussed is the use of magnetic pouches or yonder bags, which would lock phones away during the school day and be unlocked upon dismissal.

The board is expected to vote at its next regular meeting. Community input is still being accepted ahead of the decision.