Скачать или смотреть Texas' school cellphone ban: A live Q&A with educators and advocates

The new school year is underway, and students across Texas have returned to the classroom facing a new rule: no cell phones allowed.

In June, the Republican-led Texas legislature passed a law prohibiting students from using cellphones and other electronic devices throughout the entire school day, including passing periods, lunchtime and recess. The law requires school districts to adopt and implement policies either barring students from bringing cellphones to campus or designating a method to store them during instructional hours. Districts must also establish penalties for students who are caught using devices.

Lawmakers said the ban is intended to minimize distractions on campus, boost student focus and academic outcomes, reduce cyberbullying and improve mental health concerns associated with social media addiction. Critics argue that the measure will prevent parents from reaching their children in emergencies and may leave some students feeling isolated.

In this live event, recorded on September 5 we interviewed veteran educators and advocates who explored the role of cellphones on school campuses, the challenges of youth screen addiction and the potential effects of the new statewide ban.