BOSTON, Mass. — Boston Public Schools is considering a new policy that would prohibit students from accessing cellphones and other personal electronic devices throughout the school day, raising questions among students and parents about classroom distractions, safety and communication.

The proposed “bell-to-bell” ban would take effect during the 2027-2028 school year. It would require students to turn off and make electronic devices, including phones, watches, tablets and AI glasses, inaccessible for the duration of the school day.

Some students recognize the potential benefits of limiting cellphone use but say the devices can also serve an educational purpose.

“Sometimes kids need their cell phones for projects like to research pictures and things like that. But then there are certain times where some kids don’t like to give up their phones and use it for their advantage,” said Jaylin, a junior at Dearborn STEM Academy.

The proposal follows similar restrictions in other districts and a statewide initiative promoting responsible technology use and less-disrupted learning.

Some parents favor a less restrictive approach that would allow students to access their phones in emergencies.

“I feel like they should be not banned from the school, but maybe there’s only a way to access them if there’s an emergency,” said Geneva, a mother of two.

Safety is also a concern for some students, who worry that a ban could make it more difficult to contact family members during an emergency.

“I think that is a valid concern because parents are obviously gonna be worried. They’re sending their kids to a school where they think their kids are safe and there’s an issue with and they can’t reach them and there’s a big issue. And for kids it’s gonna be the same thing because they can’t reach their parents,” said Shante, a junior at Dearborn STEM Academy.

While some students acknowledge the need for limits during class, they say they should still be able to use their phones during lunch and other breaks outside the classroom.

“We don’t get to use our phones during class. We're just doing our work and a little break on your phone, that’s not bad. Just like a little scroll on TikTok or having a chance to answer some text messages, nothing’s wrong with that,” Shante said.

The policy remains a proposal. Boston Public Schools expects to gather community feedback before submitting a final policy for a school committee vote, which is expected in January 2027.