The debate over whether cell phones should be banned in schools is gaining traction, with school officials citing distractions for students and parents arguing for the need to stay in touch with their children for safety reasons. Companies like AT&T are finding themselves at the center of this discussion as they develop technology geared towards keeping younger generations connected with their parents.
AT&T recently launched the AT&T amiGO Jr. Watch, a smartwatch for kids with features like approved contact lists, location tracking, and parental monitoring. This device was designed with simple communication between parents and children in mind, rather than engaging with friends or apps. Additionally, the watch includes emergency SOS capabilities, allowing children to contact designated adults and emergency services with the press of a button.
According to AT&T's internal research, over 85% of parents believe it is their responsibility to manage their children's device usage. AT&T's head of corporate responsibility, Charlene Lake, emphasized the importance of putting control in the hands of parents, allowing them to work with schools and policymakers to make informed decisions for their families.
However, not everyone is in agreement on the issue. California Governor Gavin Newsom recently urged school districts to restrict smartphone use on campus, arguing that it could lead to improved concentration, academic outcomes, and social interactions for students.
In order to find common ground, Keri Rodrigues of the National Parents Union believes that schools and IT directors should collaborate with parents to address the challenges posed by cell phones while still allowing families to stay connected. Ultimately, the conversation surrounding cell phone use in schools will continue as stakeholders work towards finding a balance between safety, education, and connectivity.