Gov. JB Pritzker on Tuesday signed SB 2427 into law, which bans cellphones in public schools statewide.
The goal of the new law is to remove distractions from classrooms.
The law requires school districts to develop and implement a “bell-to-bell” policy, restricting access to cell phones between the hours of the first bell to the final dismissal bell.
Many school districts and private schools already have a similar policy in place.
The new law takes effect for the 2027-2028 school year.
The signing took place at Elgin High School.
On Sept. 1, the Illinois School Board of Education will share a template policy for school districts to start community discussion.
At the start of 2027-2028 academic year, Illinois schools will implement finalized cell phone policies.
The bill allows exceptions for school-issued devices; the ultimate goal is personal growth.
Exceptions include medical needs, to fulfill an Individualized Education Plan or 504 plan, students who are English learners and students who are caregivers.
Districts will be allowed to decide if high school students can access their phone during lunch or passing periods and potential emergencies.
School district U-46, which includes Elgin High School, has had policies in place banning cell phones for the last couple of years.
Students at Evanston High School are on their cell phones during passing periods.
But during classroom time, cell phones are off-limits.
It’s the same story at Streamwood High School. Students must put them in pouches at the start of classes.
Anthony Foster Jr., an incoming senior at Elgin High School, says he’s OK with the new rules. But some of his friends might not be.
“Kids are probably not gonna like it, but I understand. It’s gonna be better for our school with grades because a lot of people are distracted on their phones,” Foster said.
Educators say cell phones and other technology have become an impediment to learning in school.
“We really want kids to pay attention in class. Our teachers in Illinois are excellent, and we want to make sure our kids get the most out of their experience with their teachers,” Pritzker said.
The governor says the law should improve student engagement and mental health while decreasing issues like bullying.
Classroom cell phones bans are becoming more common in schools across the country.
Indiana Gov. Mike Braun signed a similar bill in the Hoosier state in May. And the Illinois state school superintendent says in many cases students are leading the way.
“Students by and large have agreed that phones are a major distraction, and they’re looking for ways to minimize phone usage during the day,” Illinois State School Superintendent Tony Sanders said.
