When New Hampshire students return to classrooms this fall, many will face a significant change; a new “bell-to-bell” ban on cell phone use during the school day. Championed by Governor Kelly Ayotte and supported by a bipartisan group of legislators, the measure aims to curb distractions, improve mental health, and boost student engagement.
Under the law, students can use their phones before and after school, but not during instructional hours, including lunch. Exceptions are allowed for students who require a device for medical needs or specialized education programs. The law directs school boards to work with parents and teachers on crafting policies, though it sets no firm deadline for implementation.
Evidence Behind the Ban
Education experts and research from the American Academy of Pediatrics link excessive screen time to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and sleep deprivation among teens. Social psychologist Dr. Jonathan Haidt has also pointed to links between constant phone use and reduced attention spans.
In practice, some New Hampshire schools have already adopted similar restrictions with positive results. Stevens High School in Claremont, which implemented a full-day ban in 2023, reports that students are more engaged, participate more in class discussions, and spend more time interacting with peers. Salem High School has seen similar trends.
Teacher sentiment strongly favors the shift. A survey by the National Education Association found that 83% of members supported a full-day phone ban, according to New Hampshire Public Radio (NHPR).
Adjusting to the Change
For many families, the new rules will require an adjustment. Lawmakers acknowledged that parents might be uneasy about losing all-day access to their children. Rep. Kristin Noble of Bedford, whose own children attend high school under a phone ban, shared in a WMUR that, “As a parent, it does freak you out a little bit at first… but it was fine.”
Rep. Melissa Litchfield of Brentwood, a lead sponsor of the legislation, called it “a win for students, parents, and educators alike.” She added that removing phones from the classroom “helps our kids stay focused, boosts their mental health, and gives teachers a real chance to teach without distractions.”
Supporters argue that the benefits outweigh the inconvenience. “Let’s get this done for the children of this state and for the teachers,” Gov. Ayotte said. “Get the cellphones out.”
Looking Ahead
While the law leaves timing to local school boards, many advocates, including Gov. Ayotte, hope districts implement the ban in time for the start of classes this month. Others note that a phased approach could help students, parents, and teachers adapt.
Whether rolled out immediately or in stages, the bell-to-bell ban marks a cultural shift in New Hampshire’s classrooms, one aimed at reclaiming student attention in an era of constant digital connection.
What Parents Need to Know
When it starts: The law sets no firm date. Check with your district for start times. Some may begin immediately, others may phase it in.
What’s allowed: Phones can be used before and after school, but not during classes or lunch. Exceptions apply for medical or special education needs.
How it may feel at first: Parents will not have instant access to their children during the day. Schools will still have systems for emergencies.
What it means for students: Expect more face-to-face interaction, fewer classroom disruptions, and potentially better focus.
Long-term outlook: If early results from districts like Claremont and Salem hold true statewide, schools could see stronger engagement, fewer behavioral issues, and reduced cyberbullying over time.
For now, the start of this school year may be a transition period, but supporters say the change is a step toward putting learning, not screens, at the center of the school day.
