A new law in France forbids cellphone use in schools

According to a new law recently passed in France (08/2018) students in kindergartens, elementary schools and middle schools are prohibited from using cellphones or any other end user device in school or for “any activity associated with studies beyond school grounds” (translation of the law’s wording).

It should be noted that French law already determined in 2010 that cellphone use in kindergartens, elementary schools and middle schools is prohibited during lessons (chapter 183 in the National Commitment to the Quality of the Environment Law). Currently, it appears that the prohibition has also been expanded beyond lesson time.

According to the law, high schools can choose to be included in the prohibition.

The law also notes exceptions such as “didactic purposes”, certain circumstances and children with special needs, to whom the prohibition does not apply.