Elementary and middle school cellphone bans proving popular, as debate moves to high schools

ATLANTA — A mandatory cellphone ban could be coming for all public high schools in Georgia after the positive outcomes reported by schools that have already implemented such policies.

A new state law will require every public elementary and middle school in the state to lock up students' phones and other personal devices starting next fall, but many already have such policies in place, including at high schools.

Teachers have reported strong support, with 92% backing an extension of the ban to high schools, according to a survey of 3,000 educators by Georgia Southern University detailed at a state Senate hearing Wednesday.

And educators and advocates who testified recounted similar enthusiasm at their schools and among parents.

Teachers and administrators have seen academic gains accom