The latest episode of Conexão Bett explored the bill that prohibits the use of cell phones and other electronic devices (such as tablets and internet-connected watches) in classrooms. Already signed into law by the president, the new legislation will take effect at the start of this school year, in February, and the rule applies to all levels of basic education.

Alessandra Borelli, an expert in digital law and security and a partner at Opice Blum Advogados, stated that the new legislation should not be viewed as a punishment, but rather as a call for cultural transformation.

"This is not a law intended to punish or place yet another burden on schools, students, and families. It is a call for a change in behavior that benefits our young people in their learning, mental and physical health, and overall development," he emphasized.

The restriction on the use of cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices applies throughout the school grounds, including classrooms, playgrounds, recesses, and extracurricular activities.

For Alessandra, schools’ readiness to implement the measure varies depending on their resources and infrastructure. “Many private schools had already adopted the restriction before the legislation was enacted. In general, private schools are better equipped to implement the restriction in areas such as the secure storage of devices and the creation of alternatives for social interaction. Public schools, on the other hand, face greater challenges, such as a lack of financial resources and staff to supervise and adapt to this new dynamic,” she explained.

However, regardless of whether the school system is public or private, Alessandra pointed out that the main challenge for schools will be engaging students and families and coordinating with teachers. “The legislation calls for teacher training, clear protocols, and alternatives for recess, and this will require schools to adapt,” she said.

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According to the law, students may carry the devices in their backpacks, but their use will be limited to medical or emergency situations. The rule applies to students in K-12. Cell phone use is permitted in specific cases, such as: ensure accessibility; ensure inclusion; address students’ health needs; ensure fundamental rights.

Still on the subject of the law’s implementation, Alessandra emphasized that the greatest responsibility falls on school administrators. “It is up to school administrators to update internal regulations, create protocols, and establish clear rules. Teachers should focus on educational content and the development of students’ skills, and even take the necessary steps to integrate media literacy across the curriculum. But we cannot assign them the role of monitoring compliance with the measure,” she said.

Freedom of Expression and Student Leadership

When asked about possible loopholes in the law, such as invoking the argument of freedom of expression, Alessandra was categorical: “Freedom of expression does not justify the misuse of these provisions; they are completely separate issues.”

She adds: “This should not be confused with the objectives of the legislation, which is very clear—at both the state and federal levels—regarding the rights it seeks to protect and the goals it aims to achieve. There is no connection between freedom of expression and the guarantee of physical and psychological safety, nor with the rules that must be established so that schools can fulfill their primary role of contributing to human development. These objectives are set forth in the Federal Constitution, the Statute of the Child and Adolescent, and the Law on Educational Guidelines and Foundations. The legislation makes it clear that the use of portable devices is permitted only within the exceptions provided for,” explained Alessandra.

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The attorney emphasized that the success of the initiative lies in ongoing dialogue between the school, parents, and students. “This is a great opportunity for parents to embrace this mandatory break from screen time during school hours. But this needs to extend beyond school hours, preventing children from trying to ‘make up for it’ on the weekends,” she said.

She also suggested creating school committees, with the participation of parents, students, and experts, to discuss the issue and consider effective ways to implement the measure. “When students are involved in decision-making, they feel like they’re taking the lead and help bring about the changes,” she noted.

Success Stories

Alessandra mentioned the experience of schools that had already adopted the measure before the law was enacted and managed to overcome challenges such as resistance from parents and students. “These schools created robust structures, based on reliable data, to support implementation. And by closely monitoring the results, they adjusted their strategies as needed and are already reaping the benefits. This experience shows that, with focus and dialogue, it is possible to transform school dynamics for the better,” she said.

For administrators and educators who have questions or concerns about implementing the legislation, the attorney recommends viewing it as a starting point.

“This measure must be accompanied by media literacy and digital safety programs to teach children and adolescents how to take advantage of the opportunities that technology offers in an ethical, balanced, and safe manner. The goal, as already mentioned, is to foster critical-thinking citizens who are aware of the impacts of excessive screen time—a principle enshrined in the Federal Constitution, the Statute of the Child and Adolescent, the National Education Law, and the Brazilian Civil Rights Framework for the Internet,” he emphasizes.

The success of this process depends on a collective effort: family involvement, teacher training, and well-defined strategies from schools. “Rather than simply imposing restrictions, this is an opportunity to foster a discussion about digital balance and education. Together, we can build schools that are more humane, focused, and aligned with the needs of the 21st century,” concluded Alessandra.

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The talk show is yet another forum for dialogue at Bett Brasil, featuring various experts who offer a different perspective on the most relevant and current topics in the education sector. Turn on notifications on your favorite platform to be notified whenever a new episode is available.

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