Israel to Ban Cell Phones in Middle School Next Year

The Education Ministry will ban cell phones in middle schools beginning next school year, Education Minister Yoav Kisch announced Sunday.

The move follows a similar ban introduced in elementary schools in February. Kisch said the decision was made after months of professional work and amid international research showing improved student performance in schools that restricted phone use.

“We see too many cases of children who are together in class, but each one is alone in front of their screen,” Kisch said. “This is not only a technological issue, but an educational and values-based question.”

The ministry said it examined studies from Israel and abroad and held discussions with educators, principals, parents and students before deciding to expand the ban.

In February, Ina Salzman, senior deputy director and head of the ministry’s pedagogical administration, said around 60% of Israeli teenagers are addicted to social media. She said increased phone use among students is linked to lower academic achievement, and called for more emphasis on social activities and reducing screen time at home.

The National Parents’ Leadership Association welcomed the move but said it must be accompanied by broader educational changes.

The group said reducing phone use during the school day could strengthen attention, social interaction and school climate, but warned that a ban alone would not be enough.

“Without meaningful explanation, resources, budgets and practical tools for balanced conduct in the digital world, the move will not lead to meaningful change over time,” the association said.

When the elementary school ban was introduced earlier this year, Kisch said the goal was to allow children to “truly meet each other,” reduce distractions and strengthen social and emotional growth in schools.