France bans mobile phones in high schools as new school year begins

Millions of teenagers are returning to classrooms across France this September, only to find a sweeping new rule in place: mobile phones are prohibited in all high schools. The policy, announced by the Ministry of Education, is intended to curb the amount of time students spend on their devices, which officials say is hindering academic focus and overall development. By removing smartphones from the school environment, the government hopes to create conditions that encourage concentration on lessons, improve learning outcomes, and address concerns that excessive screen time may impede cognitive and social growth among adolescents.

School administrators, however, face the practical challenge of enforcing the ban consistently. Authorities have outlined a framework that includes secure storage lockers for devices, disciplinary procedures for violations, and training for staff to monitor compliance. Critics point to potential loopholes such as hidden devices and the need for resources to manage the new system, prompting many schools to develop detailed implementation plans. As the academic year unfolds, officials will assess the measure’s impact on student performance and behavior, while educators adapt to the logistical demands of a phone‑free high‑school environment.