'When smartphone bans are done right, they can make a big difference'

A group of people using their cell phones stand in a circle

Students 'should learn to appreciate the life of the mind, not just the screen'

(Image credit: Stock Photo via Getty Images)

published 26 June 2024

'Students in LA face a cellphone ban. They shouldn't be the last.'

The Washington Post editorial board

The Los Angeles Unified School District approved a cell phone ban, and "everyone needs to learn to live without," says The Washington Post editorial board. Smartphones "undoubtedly hinder students' attention to solving for x or close reading a Shakespearean sonnet," and "simply banning their use in class" can permit "surreptitious or accidental phone use." Schools have "managed to function without smartphones for centuries," so kids "should learn to appreciate the life of the mind, not just the screen."

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Justin Klawans has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022. He began his career covering local news before joining Newsweek as a breaking news reporter, where he wrote about politics, national and global affairs, business, crime, sports, film, television and other news. Justin has also freelanced for outlets including Collider and United Press International.