It’s Time to Keep Phones Out of Classrooms

Across the nation, classrooms are dealing with a surge of distractions caused by constant buzzing, pinging, and chiming from smartphones and their apps, particularly social media platforms. As someone who has worked in the tech industry for years and is the CEO of Pinterest, I understand how algorithms are often created to keep users glued to their screens. As a parent, I’ve witnessed how these apps can be more addictive than beneficial, negatively impacting students’ ability to concentrate both in and out of school.

The excessive use of smartphones has its time and place, but it should not be in the classroom. Numerous studies have revealed the detrimental effects of excessive screen time, showing that children and teenagers who spend long hours on social media platforms are more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression, and lack of focus.

Despite these findings, many social media algorithms are still designed to maximize screen time, disregarding the impact on young users. By bombarding students with notifications that trigger a fear of missing out, these apps fuel a craving for digital stimulation. This myopic approach has tangible consequences for students and their educational progress. A recent study conducted by the University of Delaware and Florida State University in 2023 found that the academic performance of middle schoolers declined as their social media usage increased.

Teachers and parents find it challenging to compete with the constant allure of smartphones, but it doesn’t have to be this way. In response, over 20 states have passed or are considering laws that limit cellphone use in schools. A majority of U.S. adults, including 45% of Generation Z individuals, support banning middle and high school students from using cellphones during class. These efforts are yielding positive results, with schools that implement phone-free policies observing increased student engagement, fewer missed assignments, and reduced behavioral issues.

Nevertheless, it is unfair to place the burden solely on state governments, local school boards, and educators. Given the strong pull of screens and social media, tech companies must also play a role in finding solutions. This involves supporting phone-free school legislation and shifting focus away from maximizing screen time through addictive features. For example, Pinterest is endorsing a bill in Texas that aims to create distraction-free learning environments in schools and has offered assistance to other states implementing similar initiatives.

Tech companies should prioritize student learning and well-being by promoting responsible digital citizenship and encouraging critical thinking about online consumption. By striking a balance between the benefits and drawbacks of technology, we can empower a new generation of young individuals to make informed choices about their online activities.

It is time for tech companies to prioritize education and youth welfare, starting with advocating for phone-free schools.