Israel to ban cell phones in middle schools, Education Ministry confirms

May 17, 2026 - 22:02

Israel's Education Ministry has confirmed it will prohibit cell phones in middle schools starting with the next academic year. Education Minister Yoav Kisch announced the move, which follows a similar ban already put in place for elementary schools back in February. The decision aims to reduce distractions in classrooms and improve student focus, as well as address concerns over social media use and bullying during school hours.

Under the new policy, students in grades 7 through 9 will not be allowed to bring personal phones into school buildings. If they do bring a device, it must be turned off and stored away for the entire school day. The ministry has not yet specified exact penalties for violations, but schools are expected to enforce the rule through their own disciplinary codes.

The ban comes after a pilot program in several schools showed positive results, including better attention in lessons and fewer conflicts among students. Some parents have raised concerns about safety, arguing that phones allow children to contact them in emergencies. However, the ministry says schools will maintain other means of communication, such as office phones, for urgent situations.

The new rule is set to take effect at the beginning of the next school year, which typically starts in September. Officials have not ruled out extending the ban to high schools in the future.