Cellphone bans in classrooms reduce distractions, but cause some parents safety concerns [Video]

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — In a day and age where technology and social media seem to be integrated into every part of our lives, some school districts are trying to create a barrier between students and cellphones. According to CBS News, 95% of students own a phone, getting on average up to 500 notifications a day.

Alabama has about two dozen districts following cellphone bans with more planning to implement them soon, according to State Superintendent Eric Mackey.

“I’ve looked at the pros and cons, I think that there’s a lot more benefit in getting cellphones out of our classrooms than keeping them,” Mackey said.

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Mackey says some Alabama schools saw disciplinary referrals drop 85% in just one year after banning phones.

“When students have that 24 hours a day, and especially during the school day, it just …