Montgomery Independent School District (ISD) Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin announced that a new cell phone policy has led to academic improvements and increased classroom interaction among students. Ruffin shared this information with Lone Star Standard on January 23.
"Teachers have reported that students are more engaged in class, and their performance on daily assignments has improved," said Ruffin. "They've also noticed fewer incidents of cell phone misuse and cyberbullying."
According to Ruffin, the district-wide policy, "Away for the Day: No Cell Phone from Bell-to-Bell," was implemented after 100 days of engagement with teachers, parents, and students. The discussions revealed that cell phones were causing distractions, negatively impacting academic performance, and leading to dishonesty and discipline issues at school. The policy, which came into effect in August 2024, mandates that students' cell phones be turned off and stored away during school hours. Students who violate the policy may face disciplinary actions such as phone confiscation, detention, and parental notification.
Superintendent Mark Ruffin
| Montgomery ISD website
Following the implementation of the cell phone ban, district findings indicate improvements in academic performance. Lake Creek High School (LCHS) teacher Brian Tudman reported noticeable improvements in test scores. He said his students averaged over nine points higher on the first quiz of the school year. "This year they have no choice but to work in class and it's showing in their grades," Tudman said.
The positive feedback extends beyond teachers. Libby Switzer, a freshman at LCHS, expressed satisfaction with her improved social interactions during lunch and academic performance. "Academically, I'm doing so much better," she said. "In 8th grade, I was on my phone all the time and doing terribly in school, and I'm doing so much better this year already."
Ruffin also noted that the new policy has alleviated disciplinary challenges for teachers by providing a consistent rule enforced by administrators. "They appreciated having a consistent, districtwide rule that administrators enforce, which took the burden off teachers to manage phones themselves," he said. "Many told us they were grateful for the chance to focus on teaching without the constant distraction of cellphones."
Dr. Mark Ruffin became the superintendent of Montgomery ISD schools in December 2023. Before joining Montgomery ISD, he served as the superintendent of Normangee ISD for six years.
