As the 2025-2026 school year begins, 17 U.S. states and the District of Columbia have implemented new cellphone restrictions in schools, bringing the total number of states with laws or rules limiting phone and electronic device use in educational settings to 35. These measures often require students to keep their phones in special cases throughout the school day, which can only be removed after classes end. School officials cite concerns over distractions caused by phones in classrooms. The restrictions vary by state and district, with some establishing phone-free zones starting at school entry. The policies have sparked debate among parents and educators, with some parents advocating for constant communication with their children due to safety concerns such as school shootings. The broader context includes ongoing discussions about the impact of phone content on students and the challenges faced by American schools. Meanwhile, some states are also expanding school choice options for parents, reflecting varied approaches to education reform across the country.