France Extends Mobile Phone Ban to High Schools Amid Preparation Concerns
France extends its mobile phone ban to high schools for the 2026-2027 school year, aiming to reduce screen time and improve the school environment. President Macron supports the initiative, though school directors warn that institutions are not ready for the change. The SNPDEN-Unsa union criticizes the timing as inappropriate. Schools must adapt internal regulations, with some allowing exceptions for educational use. The measure follows a parliamentary approval in July, despite a social media clause being removed for free expression concerns.
France will enforce a mobile phone ban in high schools starting with the 2026-2027 academic year, aiming to curb teenage screen time and improve the educational environment. President Emmanuel Macron backs this initiative, which extends existing restrictions to older students. Despite the government's immediate application announcement, school directors express concerns about readiness.
The French Parliament approved the law in July, initially including a social media restriction for those under 15. However, the Constitutional Council removed this clause, citing freedom of expression issues, leaving the high school phone ban intact.
The Ministry of Education confirmed the extension, emphasizing its role in reducing disruptions and improving student concentration. Yet, the SNPDEN-Unsa, a union representing school directors, criticized the timing, stating, "Schools are not ready." Each high school is tasked with defining how to implement the ban, requiring internal regulation adjustments and student consultations.
Christelle Kauffmann, leading a preparatory high school, illustrates the challenge. Her school currently prohibits phones indoors but permits their use outside. Full compliance across France is expected to take a year, with exceptions for educational purposes and specific needs, such as students with disabilities or health concerns.
Authorities justify the ban by pointing to an IPSOS study showing French teenagers aged 15 to 19 spend an average of 5 hours and 19 minutes daily on screens. This excessive use contributes to sleep disorders, concentration challenges, and cyberbullying. The Ministry cites positive outcomes from schools already enforcing similar restrictions.
Implementation details will vary among high schools, with allowances for phones in educational contexts or necessary school functions. Students often rely on their devices for schedules and school information, while teachers use smartphones for documentation and exercises. The ban aims to encourage a more focused and less disruptive learning environment.
Source: www.aktual24.ro
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