Schools finally think they’ve found the answer to keeping students off their phones - and it’s making children happier

Schools are increasingly adopting lockable phone pouches to curb student smartphone use during the day. Educators report that these measures help reduce behavioral issues and distractions, though some debate the cost-effectiveness of the strategy.
Why it matters
This reflects a growing national trend in educational policy aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of social media and constant connectivity on student mental health and classroom focus.
Schools across the country are bringing in lockable pouches to keep students off their phones. Are they a game-changer, or an expensive waste of money? Nicole Wootton-Cane speaks to teachers to find out more
Bookmark Comments Go to comments Bookmark popover Removed from bookmarks
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in