Governor Phil Murphy calls for a classroom ban on cellphones

nj.com

Silent Phones, Loud Opinions

BY AASMI BORA

JANUARY 31, 2026

On Thursday, January 8th, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill enforcing a new cellphone policy that limited when students can use their phones during the school day. At East Brunswick High School, this change has sparked heavy discussion among students. While the governor signed this policy to help students focus more in class, many EBHS students instead feel annoyed and frustrated by it.

The new policy restricts students’ use of cell phones and other internet-enabled devices during regular school hours, on a school bus, or during school-sanctioned events. Administrators say this will reduce distractions and improve learning; however, many students believe the policy will do the opposite. 

A few students have acknowledged that the policy can help improve focus. Without phones on desks, classrooms feel quieter and more structured, which may benefit students who struggle with concentration. This environment can also make it easier for teachers to maintain control of the classroom and spend less time addressing off task behavior.

Schools in Texas that adopted cellphone bans have reported positive results, including increased student focus and fewer classroom distractions. Teachers observed higher participation and improved classroom behavior, making lessons more productive. Some schools also noticed better social interaction during lunch and breaks, as students spent more time talking with each other instead of using their phones. As a result, consistent cellphone restrictions can help create a more focused learning environment.

Additionally, supporters of the policy believe it encourages healthier habits. Many students admit they spend too much time on their phones, and limiting access during school hours may reduce screen dependency and promote face-to-face interaction.

However, an issue students have is that the rules are not enforced the same way in every class. Some teachers are strict about phones being completely out of sight, while other teachers are more moderate and do not enforce this rule to the same extent. This inconsistency makes it highly confusing for students, especially when they don’t know what is allowed in each class.

Junior Elmah Meer said, “It feels like they think we’re just on our phones to mess around.”

The three years that students spend at EBHS are extremely important academically, with SATSs, college planning, and AP or honors classes. Each one adds more stress to the worry that students already hold, and many times, students use their phones as tools to combat their busy schedule. 

Junior Madeline Nonesteid said, “Especially during lunch, I can use my phone to help with studying.”

Besides academics, students also raised safety and communication concerns. Many students rely on their phones to communicate with parents about rides, after-school activities, or emergencies, as club meeting schedules could change throughout the day. Even though the school says phones can be used in emergencies, some students still feel uncomfortable not having easy access to their phones during the school day.

Some teachers support the policy and say students are more focused without phones out. Others admit that most students are paying attention, especially due to the regulations that EBHS already has in place regarding phones being in calc-pals. Because of this, students feel like there should be a better, more equal balance instead of a strict ban.

Overall, many EBHS students understand why the policy exists, but they feel it needs improvement. Students believe the rules should allow more freedom by relying on trust between the student body and administration. As the year goes on, students hope the school will listen to this feedback and make changes that work better for everyone.