The State Board of Education and Gov. Ned Lamont unanimously recommended that elementary and middle schools in Connecticut collect phones at the beginning of the day.

"All too often, our young people find themselves too distracted by their smartphones and disconnected from the reality of what is happening around them, including while in their classrooms, and it's having negative impacts on their learning and mental well-being." Gov. Lamont said. "It is crucial that we adopt stronger policies to address this issue head-on. The state's guidance provides a clear framework, but it is up to each school district to shape their own policies that meet the needs of their students and communities."

Schools could store them in sealable "Yondr" pouches.

High schoolers would be allowed to keep their phones but must keep them turned off.

The new guidelines are just recommendations.

Local school districts can still set their own policies.