Story perspectives

Bipartisan Cellphone Bans Adopted, Yet Test Scores Unchanged

5/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Two-thirds of U.S. states have adopted bipartisan cellphone bans despite a study showing limited academic improvement.
Researchers from Stanford, Duke, the University of Pennsylvania and Michigan found strict bans cut phone use but did not raise test scores.
The bans initially raised suspension rates, yet teachers noted fewer classroom distractions after phones were placed in Yondr pouches.
Students in strict-ban schools later said they felt greater personal well-being.

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Story summary

Two-thirds of U.S. states have adopted bipartisan cellphone bans despite a study showing limited academic improvement.
Researchers from Stanford, Duke, the University of Pennsylvania and Michigan found strict bans cut phone use but did not raise test scores.
The bans initially raised suspension rates, yet teachers noted fewer classroom distractions after phones were placed in Yondr pouches.
Students in strict-ban schools later said they felt greater personal well-being.