Cellphones will soon be banned during the school day at all Pittsburgh Public Schools.

The Pittsburgh Board of Public Education voted Wednesday night to update the district’s Electronic Devices Policy — prohibiting the use and possession of electronic devices by students during the school day on district property.

This includes school buildings, buses and school-related activities during school hours, according to the announcement.

The updated policy will be subject to specific board-approved exceptions and guidelines, however, the board said.

“This updated policy reflects what we know supports student learning,” said Superintendent Wayne Walters. “Many of our schools have already seen positive results from limiting cellphone use during the school day.

“Establishing a districtwide standard ensures consistency while still allowing for necessary and appropriate exceptions,” Walters said.

District Spokeswoman Ebony Pugh said the policy will take effect in the fall.

Previously, individual schools in the district were able to implement their own electronic device restrictions, and because of this, 44 Pittsburgh Public Schools already require students to turn in their cellphones at the start of the school day.

The board’s announcement said this practice has “helped reduce distractions and curb incidents.”

The district said additional guidance will be provided to schools and families about implementation of the new policy, including the procedures for collection, storage and return of devices at the end of the school day.

Students can bring electronic devices to school if necessary, but they must be turned in to school personnel during the school day.

Pittsburgh Public Schools said the updated policy will be shared with students, families and staff through student handbooks, school communications and the district’s website.

According to the Pew Research Center, 72% of U.S. high school teachers say cellphones are a major classroom distraction, compared with less than 35% of middle school teachers.

In Pennsylvania, the Senate approved a bill last year to encourage schools to restrict access to cellphones during the school day and distribute grants to school districts to buy locking bags for cellphones.

The Pennsylvania Senate Education Committee later advanced legislation prohibiting the use and restricting possession of student mobile devices from the beginning bell of the day until dismissal.

School districts in Western Pennsylvania with cellphone restrictions include:

  • Allegheny Valley
  • Penn Hills
  • Monessen City
  • Woodland Hills
  • Greensburg Salem
  • Jeannette