Major New Jersey School District Expands Phone Ban from Classrooms to School Buses

The largest public school system in New Jersey has banned student smartphone use in classrooms and on school buses, marking a major shift in student technology use.

The Toms River Regional Board of Education overwhelmingly approved the new rule banning personal electronic device use during school hours. Students must respect the rules on school buses and during pre- and post-school activities. District officials said the change will reduce distractions, improve learning, and focus the school.

New rules restrict youngsters from using phones or other devices in school. Cellphones, tablets, PCs, smartwatches, headphones, earbuds, electronic readers, and other audio-visual gadgets are covered. Students must carry these things to school powered off in a backpack, book bag, or locker.

District officials said the policy reflects long-standing teaching principles, not discipline. Superintendent Michael Citta says limiting phone use in class helps students and teachers focus. Fewer internet temptations will improve academic achievement and study habits, say school officials.

The district restricted school transportation beyond statutory requirements. A New Jersey group studying social media’s effects on pupils proposes a “bell-to-bell” cellphone ban in school. Toms River Regional considers transportation time school time.

Toms River, Beachwood, Pine Beach, and South Toms River have 18 schools, including three high schools and three middle schools, serving 15,000 students. As one of the state’s largest school districts, its decisions affect others.

The new rule has exceptions. Accommodation plans may include devices for students with disabilities, medical concerns, or health needs. The district claims these exceptions ensure student safety and compliance with state and federal education regulations.

Policy also stipulates student-parent communication. Students can only call parents during the school day with staff consent using a main office phone. The main office is where parents can access their children during school hours.

Discipline will be gradual. A written warning is normally provided after a first infraction, but an alternative education program may remove a student from regular classrooms for one day after a third offense. District administrators value consistency and responsibility over punishment.

Thomas River Regional is not alone in restricting student devices. Other large New Jersey districts have passed similar restrictions, and statewide debates are underway. No statewide mandate has been passed, although legislative leaders advocate wider student smartphone use limits. In New York and other adjacent states, school-hour cellphone use is prohibited.

As disputes continue in New Jersey, education leaders say the focus is on student well-being, academic success, and limiting the harms of 24/7 digital access. School administrators believe technological limits can help students focus, engage, and learn.