House bill proposes social media limits in schools | News, Sports, Jobs – Times Republican

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO In this photo illustration, social media apps are seen on a mobile phone. Rep. Garrett Gobble has a Snapchat problem. “I can’t tell you the number of times I, in any place I’ve ever taught, have seen the kids on Facebook or Twitter or Snapchat,” he said. “And it’s just obviously not an academic purpose.” Gobble, R-Ankeny, teaches 8th grade U.S. Studies at Northview Middle School in Ankeny. He said his students are often distracted by social media or phone games, like “Clash of Clans.” “Instagram, Snapchat. They’re constantly on it… It’s a respect thing, and it’s a ‘are you actually learning?’ thing,” Gobble said. In response, Gobble proposed House File 2052. The bill would give explicit permission for Iowa schools to limit internet access for social media sites. Beyond just encouraging focus in class, Gobble noted the mental health impact of constant social media use. “Giving our kids an eight-hour break during the school day to focus on school, be a kid, is kind of why I brought this bill forward,” he said. The Iowa State Education Association registered in favor of the proposal. “We do know that there are lots and lots of distractions in the…
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