Arkansas has enacted a new ‘Bell to Bell, No Cell Act’ that prohibits students from using cellular devices during school hours. The policy, which took effect recently, aims to eliminate distractions in classrooms and improve student academic performance. The law follows a broader trend of states taking a more active role in education, a shift that has been supported by President Donald Trump’s administration.
During a segment on ‘Fox & Friends,’ Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Education Secretary Linda McMahon discussed the new law, emphasizing its alignment with Trump’s vision of returning education authority to states. The two officials highlighted the importance of minimizing technology use in schools to foster a more focused learning environment. They also mentioned that the policy is part of a larger push to standardize educational reforms across the country.
While the law has been met with some support from educators and parents, critics argue that it may hinder students’ access to valuable resources and communication tools. The debate over the balance between technology use and academic focus continues as more states consider similar policies.