Illinois lawmakers are moving closer to new rules on cell phone use in schools, and Wabash District #348 is keeping a close eye on the situation.
At Monday evening’s school board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Chuck Bleyer updated members on proposed legislation in Springfield that would require districts to adopt policies restricting mobile device use during the school day.
Bleyer says the bill has passed the Illinois House with strong support and is expected to move forward, with implementation now targeted for the 2027–2028 school year.
However, Bleyer says the current version of the legislation leaves much of the decision-making up to local school districts.
He noted District #348 already has policies in place limiting cell phone use, and says schools often impose stricter controls than students experience outside the classroom.
Bleyer also told the board a district committee, now referred to as the mobile devices council, is working to review and possibly strengthen current policies.
He says one of the biggest challenges will be finding the right balance, especially in areas like hallways, lunch periods, and open campus policies.
Bleyer adds the issue goes beyond the classroom, calling it a broader community and cultural challenge as schools work to manage student device use moving forward.
Members of the District #348 school board listen to Superintendent Dr. Chuck Bleyer as he discusses the status of legislation banning cell phone use in schools.
Governor JB Pritzker has said he will sign legislation banning cell phones in schools.