NEWS

Education Insight: California’s Push for Phone-Free Classrooms

September 16, 2024

About This Episode

Season 4. Episode 5.

In this episode of Education Insight, we dive into the implications of Assembly Bill 3216, also known as the Phone-Free Schools Act, which was recently passed by the California state legislature. This new bill would require school districts to implement policies limiting or banning cellphone use during school hours by July 2026. Governor Gavin Newsom, who has been a strong advocate for reducing smartphone distractions in the classroom, is expected to sign the bill, making California the fifth state to impose such a restriction.

To explore how this legislation might affect schools in the Inland Empire, we sat down with Tobin Brinker, President of the Rialto Education Association, and Michael Montano, Vice President of the Association. Both educators bring decades of experience in elementary, middle, and high school classrooms and share their perspectives on the potential benefits and challenges of limiting cellphone use in schools.

In this insightful conversation, we discuss how the new bill could reshape student engagement, reduce distractions, and foster a more focused learning environment across California classrooms. Tune in to learn more about the future of education and technology in our schools.

Featured Guest

Tobin Brinker

President, Rialto Education Association and Frisbie Middle School Teacher

A seasoned history teacher with a decade of experience in local elected office. Brinker brings a unique perspective, blending historical insight with practical political experience, offering a nuanced understanding of America’s founding principles and their lasting impact.

Michael Montano

Vice President, Rialto Education Association and Rialto High School Teacher

Interview Highlights

3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

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Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.