1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

As a concerned mother, I am deeply troubled by the growing push to restrict students’ access to cell phones in schools while we have yet to fully address the far greater and more urgent threat to their safety—gun violence. Before we impose limits on students’ ability to communicate, we must first ensure they are safe in the classroom. Cell phones are not just distractions; they are lifelines. In an emergency, including the unthinkable reality of a school shooting, a student’s ability to call 911, receive real-time updates, or communicate with loved ones can mean the difference between life and death. Removing or severely restricting this access leaves children vulnerable and parents powerless. If lawmakers are serious about protecting students, the focus should be on comprehensive gun safety measures and school security—not limiting their ability to reach help when they need it most. I urge you to prioritize real solutions to keep our children safe rather than policies that remove one of their few defenses in a crisis.