Unlocking Potential: New Policy Brief Reveals the Profound Impact of Cell Phones on Student Learning in Public Schools
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Austin, TX — May 1, 2025 — E3 Alliance has released a comprehensive policy brief titled “The Impact of Cell Phones in Public Schools on Student Learning and Outcomes,” revealing the multifaceted influence of mobile devices on education. With nearly 98% of teens having access to smartphones, the brief outlines both the advantages and challenges associated with cell phone use in classrooms.
Key findings underscore the urgency of the issue, revealing that while cell phones can facilitate research and communication, they can also distract students, decrease academic performance, and hinder social skills. Alarmingly, 72% of U.S. high school teachers identify cell phone usage as a significant barrier to effective teaching.
The report showcases successful policy implementations in Texas school districts, such as Killeen ISD’s “Cell Phone-Free School Year,” which has facilitated increased student engagement. Similarly, Temple ISD’s cell phone locker policy has led to a notable decrease in discipline referrals and improved attendance rates.
E3 Alliance recommends developing comprehensive statewide guidelines to help school districts create effective cell phone policies. Implementing uniform guidelines across Texas school districts would enhance safety measures and regulate cell phone usage more effectively. State support is essential for enforcing policies that foster a productive learning environment.
Recently, the Texas House voted 136-10 to pass HB 1481, which prohibits cell phones and smart devices in K-12 public schools. State Representative Caroline Fairly led the bill, which now heads to the Senate to be fully adopted.
As the dialogue around cell phone usage in schools evolves, E3 Alliance calls for urgent and proactive measures to create a productive learning environment that balances technology integration with student well-being. The time to act is now.
For more information regarding the policy brief and its findings, visit The Impact of Cell Phones in Public Schools on Student Learning and Outcomes.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Kaci Kai
Senior Director of Communications
E3 Alliance
512-223-7245
kkai@e3alliance.org
About E3 Alliance: E3 Alliance is a nationally recognized, data-driven education collaborative and solutions provider based in Central Texas. We work across the state to transform education systems through data and collaboration, so all students succeed. We also work to increase economic mobility and the overall quality of life for our community through education system alignment from pre-K to the workforce. Founded in 2006, we are a leader in collective impact, collaborating with 15 Central Texas school districts, seven higher education institutions, and numerous businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, policy leaders, students, and families.
About E3 Alliance Data and Trends Portal: The E3 Alliance Data and Trends Portal offers comprehensive insights into education outcomes across Central Texas and specific Texas regions and legislative districts. It provides educators, policymakers, business leaders, and community members with actionable data on trends that impact students, families, and the economy. Building on the Central Texas Education Profile since 2007, the portal delivers a thorough, regional assessment of educational trends and outcomes throughout Texas.