Gov. Pritzker Joins Educators to Support Distraction-Free Learning in Illinois Classrooms

OAK PARK – Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined students, educators, and state leaders at Oak Park and River Forest High School to advocate for a cell phone ban in Illinois classrooms, a critical measure that would support Illinois teachers and help students across the state reach their full potential. Governor Pritzker championed the initiative during his annual State of the State budget address.

“Strong schools are the foundation to our success as a state. This year, I am proposing legislation that requires school districts to adopt a cell phone policy that keeps students focused on the work in class,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We owe it to our kids to cultivate the healthiest, most productive learning environment possible — this proposal will help us do just that.”

The proposed legislation would require all school districts and charter schools in Illinois to adopt a policy limiting the use of wireless communication devices on school grounds during the day — from “bell to bell.” As 72% of high school teachers identify cell phone distraction as a “major problem” in their classrooms, Governor Pritzker is taking action to support educators in the digital age.

Research shows that cell phone overuse among teenagers can lead to anxiety, depression, issues with sleep, and other mental health issues stemming from cyberbullying and social media. Studies have also linked more stringent cell phone polices to fewer distractions — allowing students to better learn and socialize. By reducing phone use in the classroom, Illinois would be reducing serious risks and distractions among students at a critical time in their lives.

“Our teachers deserve classrooms where they can focus on teaching and students can focus on learning,” said State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders. “A clear, consistent cell phone policy will empower local school districts to create distraction-free environments that support academic growth, strengthen student engagement, and promote student well-being. By setting thoughtful boundaries around cell phone use — while preserving critical exceptions for health, accessibility, and safety — this legislation is designed to help students thrive both in the classroom and beyond.”

The legislation calls for districts to adopt policies limiting the use of phones from bell to bell, with the following exceptions:

School districts must involve parents, teachers, and staff in the development of a specific cell phone policy, and student engagement is highly encouraged. Additionally, this legislation would empower school districts to carve out their own exceptions, such as allowing cell phone access during lunch, in the event of an emergency, or when teachers have authorized cell phone use for educational purposes.

“Anyone who spent time in a school recently knows how quickly a cell phone can pull a student away from a lesson. This legislation gives schools the authority to limit cell phone use during instructional time so students can stay focused. At the same time, it respects the diversity of our state and lets local officials craft policies that work for their communities,” said Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park). “I appreciate the Governor’s leadership in pushing this forward. The Senate already put strong bipartisan support behind the legislation, and I hope this is the year it gets to the Governor’s desk. It’s a practical step to support teachers and help students concentrate on what matters most: learning.”

“Every student in Illinois deserves a quality education in a productive and welcoming setting,” said State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin). “Reducing the harms of constant cell phone usage by students in the classroom supports academic achievement and ensures the best environment possible for learning and growth.”

“Cell phone usage is a significant distraction in classrooms and a factor in the mental health of our youth,” said State Rep. Michelle Mussman (D-Schaumburg). “By creating a bell to bell ban on phone use in schools, with thoughtful exceptions, we're ensuring our students are more engaged in their lessons and also freeing our teachers to focus on curriculum instead of classroom management. Students will be encouraged to interact more with their educators and peers, which is essential to social development. This bill will create a more positive and impactful teaching and learning environment.”

“Schools should be a place where students focus, learn, and grow — not be distracted by their phones,” said State Rep. Camille Lilly (D-Chicago). “That’s why we are pushing a statewide ban on cell phone use during the school day, with exceptions for emergencies or educational purposes. By reducing distractions, we can help students engage with each other, improve mental health, and ensure every student leaves school with real knowledge and life skills.” ​

Governor Pritzker is committed to supporting a robust, world-class education system in Illinois, increasing Evidence-Based Funding for K-12 schools by $2.4 billion since taking office. It’s these critical investments that make Illinois one of the best places in the nation to receive an education, with the high school graduation rate reaching a 15-year high and Illinois students delivering reading and math results that outpace the national average and place the state among the nation’s leading performers. Illinois is also making key strides to support teachers through the innovative Teacher Vacancy Grant Pilot Program, which has resulted in a record-high number of teachers employed in classrooms across the state.

###