France tests smartphone ban in 200 middle schools for back-to-school

France is conducting a trial of a smartphone ban in 200 middle schools as part of its back-to-school initiative. The experiment aims to improve student focus, reduce distractions, and enhance academic performance by limiting smartphone use during school hours. This move is part of broader efforts to create a more conducive learning environment and assess the impact of reduced screen time on student engagement and well-being in educational settings. The results will help inform potential nationwide policy changes.

If successful, the ban could be rolled out to all schools nationwide.

This week, 200 middle schools in France began testing a "digital break"—a full ban on mobile phones in classrooms. The goal is to reduce screen time and prevent cyberbullying, a move appreciated by both staff and students.

If the trial goes well, the ban will be applied in all schools starting January 2025. At Claudine Hermann Middle School, located in the southern suburbs of Paris, students begin their day by handing in their phones.

“It helps students get used to being without their phones and encourages them to engage differently, even during recess,” said school supervisor Fabien Leroux. Victor, an 11-year-old student, commented, “We’re here to have fun, so there’s no need for a phone.”

Halima, another sixth-grade student, added, “I think it’s a great idea because phones can be distracting during lessons. It’s better not to have them in class.” The phones are stored in five sturdy briefcases throughout the day. The school spent €300 on these briefcases, covering the costs themselves.

The government is not funding this test ban, leaving the financial responsibility to the departments that fund middle schools, some of which find the cost burdensome. François Sauvadet, president of the Association of Departments of France, estimated that a nationwide ban could cost the country’s 7,000 middle schools around €125 million for new equipment, according to local media.

However, outgoing Education Minister Nicole Belloubet disagrees. During a visit to Claudine Hermann Middle School on Tuesday, she said, "The financial costs seem relatively modest. The briefcases used by this school to store phones cost about €60 each and were paid from their own funds."

"But of course, I want to avoid any misunderstanding with the Association of Departments of France. I will reach out to them again if any clarifications are needed," Belloubet told Euronews in an interview.

For questions or comments write to writers@bostonbrandmedia.com

Source: euronews‍