Gov. Ferguson takes ‘Away for the Day’ cell phone ban campaign to Spokane
Oct 2, 2026, 3:03 PM | Updated: 3:03 pm
Gov. Bob Ferguson speaks at Lewis and Clark High School in Spokane on Oct. 2, 2026, about his proposal to restrict student cell phone use during the school day. (Photo courtesy of TVW)
(Photo courtesy of TVW)
Gov. Bob Ferguson is taking his push to get cell phones out of Washington schools across the state, with his latest stop being in Spokane.
Ferguson visited Lewis and Clark High School on Friday to promote his “Away for the Day” proposal. The plan would require students to put away phones and smartwatches from the first bell to the last.
“They’re not in your backpack. They’re not with you between classes,” Ferguson said.
School districts would have some flexibility in how devices are stored and how the policy is enforced. Ferguson said students would not be suspended for violating the policy during its first year.
Spokane Public Schools already restricts cell phone use during class, but high school students can still use phones between classes and at lunch.
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Lewis and Clark junior Eli Wissing said putting phones away has changed how students interact.
“Most days last year at lunch, my friends and I would spend time on our phones, playing games, and maybe talk a little bit,” Wissing said. “And then during springtime, we started going out to the courtyard and hanging out, playing hacky sack and just really connecting.”
Senior Grace Parker said phones can be distracting, but they also help students communicate with their families, organize schedules, and stay connected.
“So I think this conversation is ultimately about finding the right balance,” Parker said.
Concerns about all-day restrictions include how parents would reach their children during an emergency. Ferguson addressed that Friday, saying parents could contact schools and that students should be following staff instructions during a serious emergency.
Ferguson first announced the plan in June and has been taking it around the state, meeting with students, teachers and school officials.
He plans to ask lawmakers to approve the statewide policy when they return to Olympia in January. If approved, it would take effect in September 2027.
Read more of Tim Hohl’s stories here.
