NEW JERSEY (PIX11) — A report published Monday by the New Jersey Commission on the Effects of Social Media Usage on Adolescents recommends bell-to-bell phone bans in schools.
Last September, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy tasked a panel of parents, educators and other experts with investigating the impact of social media on adolescents. An all-day phone ban, including during lunch and recess, was among 20 recommendations.
“It’s not just about paying attention to your classes,” said Charles Gelinas, a Westfield dad and the commission co-chair.
“You’re at lunch. You’re at the library. You’re playing sports. This is a time to socialize. You want to have physical interactions with kids, learn how to mediate disputes and differences. This is where you do it.”
The chief concern among parents is