California School District Bans Cell Phone Use for Middle Schoolers

A state bill currently being considered by state lawmakers would require school boards in California to limit or ban cell phone use in schools by July 1, 2026.

High school students sit at a table holding multiple digital devices such as phones and tablets during a class lesson. LBeddoe/Shutterstock

The Roseville City School Board located in Central California recently adopted a policy that turns the district’s middle schools into “phone-free zones” next school year.

School board members voted unanimously May 9 to approve the policy—introduced by Trustee Jonathan Zachreson—which requires middle school students to turn off and put away their cell phones from the moment they arrive at school until the school day ends.