#USA #Washington #Youth Mental Health #Phone-Free Schools #PFSM

New National Survey Shows Parents Favor Phone-Free School Days

A groundbreaking survey conducted by the Phone-Free Schools Movement (PFSM) has uncovered significant insights regarding parental views on the use of mobile devices in educational settings. The report, titled "From Awareness to Action: A Blueprint for Phone-Free Schools," presents the first comprehensive analysis focused exclusively on the implications of student phone usage in K–12 schools across the nation.

Survey Overview

In October 2025, PFSM conducted a survey involving 1,000 parents of public school students aged 9 to 17. The aim was to gather opinions on how phone usage affects students' safety, well-being, and academic performance. The findings were meticulously weighted to accurately reflect the diverse demographics of the national population, including regional representation, gender, income, and political affiliation.

Key Findings

The results paint a concerning picture of the impact of mobile devices on student life:

• - Negative Consequences: Approximately 58% of parents reported that their child had experienced at least one adverse effect from device use during school, which includes issues like distraction, bullying, and social conflict.
• - Environment Concerns: One-third of respondents believe that mobile phones detrimentally affect the general atmosphere of schools.
• - Public Health Issue: A striking 70% of parents deem the overuse of devices and social media among teenagers as a serious public health concern, with 38% feeling it warrants action at state or national levels.
• - Critical Development Stage: The survey also noted that problems tend to escalate around age 13, coinciding with when many students acquire their first mobile phone and begin exploring social media.

Mileva Repasky, co-founder of PFSM, noted that these statistics reflect a longstanding sentiment expressed by families. She emphasized, "Parents are not demanding perfection; they simply seek a healthy environment where children can concentrate on their education and foster meaningful relationships devoid of the distractions posed by smartphones."

A Call for Change

In light of these findings, co-founder Sabine Polak accentuated the organization’s mission: to empower youth by freeing them from the burdens introduced by mobile devices and social media during school hours. She stated, "The data indicates that parents are prepared for change and are looking for schools and legislators to spearhead this initiative."

Bipartisan Agreement

Interestingly, the survey reflects a rare consensus among parents from differing political backgrounds. Both Republican and Democratic parents reported similar levels of concern regarding the negative impacts of device use on students and supported the call for clearer cell phone usage policies in schools.

Paul Burani, founder of Mission Flywheel, articulated that this issue transcends political divides, stating, "The debate around phones in schools is not a cultural clash; it revolves around focus, safety, and the mental health of our youth. Across political lines, parents acknowledge the drawbacks of phone usage and advocate for timely action to enhance students' attention and wellness during school hours."

Blueprint for Action

The white paper not only outlines the problem but also proposes practical solutions for lawmakers, educational districts, and families:

1. Statewide Guidelines: Implement clear regulations to keep phones off and out of reach throughout the school day, with health-related exceptions if necessary.
2. Supportive Activities: Establish opportunities for students to engage in peer-led clubs and activities that foster connections without screens.
3. Mental Health Framework: Integrate phone limitations within the broader scope of youth mental health and school safety initiatives rather than solely as classroom disciplinary measures.
4. Unified Expectations: Coordinate messages between home and school to ensure that families and educators uphold consistent boundaries regarding device use.

To aid in these initiatives, PFSM has developed toolkits containing model policies, communication templates, and guidelines for effective implementation, available on their website. Parents and educators are encouraged to visit www.phonefreeschoolsmovement.org for further details, including access to the white paper and resources for advocacy.

About PFSM

The Phone-Free Schools Movement is a nonprofit organization committed to reinstating focus, connection, and confidence in the educational environment. PFSM collaborates with families, educators, and policymakers to encourage evidence-based phone-free regulations in schools, aiming to nurture a learning atmosphere free from the adverse effects of constant connectivity.

Conclusion

As the conversation about mobile phones in educational settings evolves, the latest findings from PFSM underscore an urgent need to prioritize student well-being and cultivate learning environments where children can thrive without digital distractions. This nationwide survey presents compelling evidence that a paradigm shift toward phone-free policies is not just desired but necessary to foster healthier, more productive educational experiences for today’s youth.