Banning cell phones in schools? Education advocates expect lawmakers to propose legislation [Video]

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) -Tennessee lawmakers are expected to propose legislation that would ban cell phones in schools. But whether it will be a total ban or up to the individual school district is still uncertain.

“I think during the school day there is no reason to have that in their backpacks,” said Mary Claire Reynolds, mom of a second and fourth grader at Sylvan Park Elementary.

She overall supports the idea lawmakers plan to put forth.

“We expect that to be one of the first bills filed in the next legislative session,” said JC Bowman, with Professional Educators of Tennessee. “I do see a policy, particularly among early grades, to ban them. Probably putting some real restrictions on middle school.”

It’s an effort to limit distractions, prevent cyberbullying, and push healthier social interactions. But those against the idea say phones are needed for medical issues and to contact parents in …