Bryn Mawr Student Testifies in Annapolis for Phone-Free Schools

Earlier this month, Raneem Eberlein ’27 took her voice to Annapolis, testifying before the Education, Energy, and Environment Committee in support of a bill that could limit smartphone use in classrooms and schools across Maryland. The proposed legislation mirrors the phone-free school day policy currently in place at Bryn Mawr and other area schools, including Gilman and Roland Park Country School. 

Reneem, who is a member of Bryn Mawr's Model Congress club, spoke confidently about the benefits of reducing screen time in schools. 

“I notice that I’m constantly on my phone, using it as a distraction, checking out with it,” Raneem shared. “It’s become a part of daily life that has hindered a lot of learning, social interaction, and productivity.”

Though Raneem is no stranger to the legislative process—she’s a member of Bryn Mawr’s Model Congress club, where students draft and pass mock bills—testifying in Annapolis was a new venture. When she received an email  inviting club members to get involved, Raneem didn’t know it would lead to her speaking before the committee. But the opportunity to share her views in real-world politics was one she couldn’t pass up. Her preparation included drafting a one-page statement and meeting with her representative, State Senator Mary Washington.

This fall, Bryn Mawr introduced a phone-free school day to encourage students to socialize more, focus on their academics, and experience school without the constant pull of social media and notifications. While the policy was met with mixed reactions, Raneem believes in its long-term benefits. "It's really hard to be in favor of it because we've never really had an instance of being told 'no phones'—we've always had them," she acknowledged. "But hopefully a lot of people are able to see the benefits that come from it, even if they’re not able to enjoy it."

You can watch Raneem's testimony here, as she makes a compelling case for a phone-free future in schools.