The Bell-to-Bell Bill Failed. Now What?

Well friends, I’m disappointed to report our efforts to enact a state-wide cell phone ban were not successful this session. This is not the end of the road, though, it’s just a roadblock. In states around the country who did pass a bell-to-bell ban this year, this was the second or even third time those bills had been introduced. So, all hope is not lost, even if this outcome is very, very disappointing. 

One factor working against us was that this was a “short session” for Connecticut. The legislature meets for a three-month session in even-numbered years, and a five-month session in odd-numbered years. So, in these short years, the number of bills introduced always outpaces the time available to enact them. 

We’re not the only disappointed coalition. The Connecticut Business and Industry Association’s statement aptly said, “It appears that, in every major policy area, the legislature took one step forward, but then sort of three steps back,” … Overall, … there were a lot of missed opportunities.”

Another thing working against us was that the superintendent’s association and various boards of education across the state worked hard to block this bill from moving forward. From a common sense perspective, it’s difficult to understand why educators would actively try to block this. From a logistical perspective, I can only assume it’s because they didn’t want something else to deal with and try to enforce. 

Right now, that information is scattered and hard to find. Part of the goal here is also to connect and coordinate the many grassroots efforts already happening across Connecticut. We need to collaborate and share what’s working, instead of everyone reinventing the wheel district by district.

So please, take a few minutes to complete the Reducing Screens in Schools Survey, even if your district has made little or no progress. Understanding what’s happening town-by-town will help us organize more effectively, support and consolidate local efforts, identify successful strategies, and build a stronger case for statewide action during the next legislative session.

And please share it with other Connecticut parents, teachers, and community members who care about this issue.

I think the people reading this are already making different choices. Our kids aren’t getting their own smartphone; they’re not on social media, and unlimited screentime at home doesn’t exist. I’m hopeful the climate will be different in 5 years, because I think many (maybe most) kids won’t have phones like they do now. 

But even next year, entering 2^nd and 4^th grade in my house, I want screens OFF for my kids in class. I plan to formally request that they not use screens for things that can be done on pen and paper, especially reading, and no Chromebooks coming home. 

I’m still formulating my plans and thoughts, but would love to know what you think and what you would be willing to do at your own schools. If your school offered a screen free classroom or cohort, would you sign up for it? Please click here and let us know where you stand on screens in the classroom.

Several districts in Connecticut are making great progress, while others stagnate in the status quo, leaving our kids to pay the price. That’s why statewide action is so important. But until we get there, it’s important not to get discouraged or lose faith. We can and will make changes. 

There is SO MUCH INFORMATION about all of this; new lawsuits are being filed against EdTech and Social Media giants every day. Webinars, Substacks, Instagram and Facebook accounts put out SO MUCH CONTENT. It is overwhelming and daunting. But I’m going to take it one step at a time and see where we end up. 

In encouraging news, Los Angeles, the second largest school district in the country, recently approved a plan to implement screen time limits: students will be kept away entirely from screens until the second grade, and after that, screen time will be tracked and limited. Teachers are being encouraged to move to paper and pen assignments. And the impetus behind this move was PARENTS CALLING FOR ACTION. So, if the second largest school district in the country can do it, I think each and every district in Connecticut can too, but they won’t do it if we don’t demand it. And we’re stronger if we do it together. 

Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone who is still reading, to everyone who signed the petition, to everyone who shared social media posts, made phone calls and sent emails. We made an impact, but this is just the start of the fight. It’s sad and frustrating that something this simple and basic has to be a fight, but I think it’s worth it to fight for our kids, don’t you? 

Good luck during these last few insanely busy weeks of school. In the midst of field day prep, end of year celebrations, spirit weeks and finalizing summer camp registrations, PLEASE take a few minutes to complete the Survey. Share it. Sign the Petition. Share It. 

I’ll be in touch with updates soon. Onward and Upward.

Cheers,

Regina