What does Preamble of Focus on Learning Act do?

This bill directs the Surgeon General to conduct a study on mobile device use in schools A pilot program will be established to award grants for creating mobile device-free school environments

What does SHORT TITLE. of Focus on Learning Act do?

This bill is formally titled the Focus on Learning Act.

What does DEFINITIONS. of Focus on Learning Act do?

This section defines key terms used within the Act. Terms like 'child with a disability,' 'elementary school,' 'English learner,' 'local educational agency,' and 'secondary school' are defined by referencing section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. A 'mobile device' is defined as a personal mobile telephone or other portable electronic communication device used for calls, messaging, games, or video viewing, excluding school-issued devices. A 'school environment free of mobile devices' refers to an elementary or secondary school where student mobile devices are secured by a school administrator. ‘School hours’ encompasses regular instructional time, including lunch periods, free periods on school grounds, and time between classroom instruction.

What does STUDY. of Focus on Learning Act do?

This section requires a study on mobile device use in schools. The study will examine impact on student learning, mental health, and school climate. A report will be submitted to Congress with the study results.

What does PILOT PROGRAM. of Focus on Learning Act do?

This section establishes a pilot program administered by the Secretary of Education, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to award grants to local educational agencies. Participating schools will use the grants to purchase secure containers and install lockers to create a school environment free of mobile devices. Local educational agencies must submit applications detailing their plans for selecting schools, communication systems, student-parent contact processes, and mobile device policies. Selection for the pilot program will be based on the potential for the applicant to provide helpful information regarding school environments free of mobile devices. Exemptions allowing mobile device use are permitted for health monitoring, students with disabilities, and English learners needing translation. Parental notification and feedback are required before and after grant applications and awards. Up to 2% of grant funds can be used for administrative expenses, data collection, and a study required under section 3. A total of $5,000,000 is authorized for appropriations to carry out this section from fiscal years 2025 through 2029.

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Focus on Learning Act

Last updated: 2/12/2025 · Introduced: 2/12/2025

Author: Bruce Westerman (R-AR)

TL;DR (AI)

The Surgeon General will conduct a study on the impact of mobile device use in schools on student learning, mental health, and school climate.
A pilot program will be established to award grants to local educational agencies to create mobile device-free school environments by purchasing secure containers and installing lockers.
The pilot program will receive $5,000,000 in authorized appropriations from fiscal years 2025 through 2029 to support participating schools in creating mobile device-free environments.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 3 more.

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