SAVANNAH, Ga. — The educational landscape in Georgia might be on the brink of transformation as new legislative proposals make their way through the State Capitol in 2026. These bills aim to revamp various aspects of the school experience, focusing on student learning methods, campus safety, and regulations concerning student possessions.

Among the most talked-about proposals is House Bill 1009, which seeks to extend the current ban on cell phones from K-8 students to include high schoolers. This initiative comes after a year of observing the effects of the initial ban, with the goal of minimizing distractions in the classroom setting. During a Senate hearing, State Superintendent Richard Woods emphasized the dual impact of cell phone usage, noting its interference with academic performance as well as its contribution to mental health challenges.

“This is both an academic and mental health issue,” Woods stated firmly. “Research indicates that extensive screen time can detrimentally affect students’ academic achievements and emotional well-being.”

In Savannah’s Daffin Park, sentiments echoed Woods’ concerns. Two local residents, when approached for their views on the proposed expansion of the ban, expressed agreement with the superintendent’s standpoint, highlighting community support for the initiative.

talked with two Savannah residents in Daffin Park who agree with Woods Tuesday.

“I feel like there probably should be something where kids don’t have [their phones] at school and maybe even after school, limiting it a little bit because they have gotten just so distracting,” an anonymous woman told .

The other resident, a man said, “As far as just a general ban to prevent mindless scrolling during the day… it’s a great thing.”

Both people said they do however understand that parents may need to get in contact with their children for extracurricular activities or emergencies, which is a benefit to having a phone at school.

Lawmakers are also considering a bill that would require vape detectors in Georgia high schools.
The device can detect particles linked to nicotine or THC, alerting staff in real time that a student has a vape.

“Everyone I know has always said if they could go back to when they started vaping, they would not have done it,” the man told . “I think these detectors in high schools is a great way to at least eliminate as many people from being addicted to nicotine as possible.”

Another controversial proposal would require firearms safety education, starting as early as kindergarten. Sen. Billy Hickman of Statesboro and Sen. Max Burns of Sylvania sponsored Senate Bill 401.

The lessons wouldn’t demonstrate how to use a firearm, rather what kids should do if they encounter a gun.

“I feel like it definitely makes them more aware,” the woman said. “Not everyone is knowledgeable, so I think the knowledge needs to be there.”

If any of these bills concern parents, they can contact local lawmakers. The legislation will be introduced over the 40-day session, which ends in March.