TRANSCRIPT:
For South Carolina Public Radio, I’m Dr. Rénard Harris from the College of Charleston. This is Teachable Moments, a minute of education for students and parents.
In 2025, South Carolina implemented a statewide ban on cellphone use in classrooms. Nationwide, early results are mixed. Some schools report fewer disruptions, more engagement, and small gains in academic performance, and teachers describe calmer classrooms and more attention.
But some parents are concerned about school safety and digital literacy. And while students accept the ban, most still want access during lunch or between classes.
Experts note that cellphone bans are only one piece of the puzzle. School climate, relationships, and overall learning environments shape student outcomes.
At the end of the day, it’s the culture of a school—not just the rules—that drives student success.
For the College of Charleston, I’m Dr. Rénard Harris.
