Governor Josh Stein’s Advisory Council for Student Safety and Well-Being has released its first report, recommending North Carolina school systems to implement policies eliminating the use of personal communication devices during school hours. This move is part of a broader initiative to improve student focus and well-being by reducing distractions.
“When students can spend their school day focused on their learning and engaged with friends and teachers, they have the opportunity to learn better and fully engage with others,” said Governor Josh Stein. He emphasized North Carolina’s leadership in enhancing academic achievement, well-being, and safety through this policy.
Senate Democratic Leader Sydney Batch, who co-chairs the Advisory Council, noted a significant decline in student mental health over the past 15 years. “North Carolina’s children deserve to learn in environments that support their growth—not just academically, but emotionally and socially,” she stated. The guide provides evidence-based tools for schools to create focused classrooms and healthier environments.
Deputy Secretary William Lassiter highlighted alarming statistics about smartphone usage among teenagers: “On average, teenagers use their smartphones for more than four hours per day, receiving more than 230 notifications per day.” He stressed that increased device usage correlates with deteriorating mental health among students.
Heather Smith, 2024 NC Teacher of the Year and another co-chair of the council, advocated for eliminating personal communication devices during instructional time. She believes this will foster deeper focus and stronger relationships within classrooms.
The best practices guide was commissioned by Governor Stein as an initial step towards creating healthier learning environments. It provides guidelines for implementing device-free policies in schools based on research into how these devices affect children’s mental health. Over recent years, there has been a marked increase in reports of sadness or hopelessness among high school students.
The Advisory Council was established under Executive Order 13 with a mission to promote safe and inclusive schools across North Carolina. It will continue developing recommendations aimed at improving student safety and well-being while collaborating with state agencies and local communities.
The council is co-chaired by Sydney Batch from the Senate Democratic Leadership; William L. Lassiter from the Department of Public Safety; and Heather Smith from Haywood County Schools.
