BOISE – In an effort to reduce classroom distractions, Idaho Governor Brad Little and Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield introduced Executive Order 2024-11, titled the “Phone Free Learning Act.” This new policy aims to encourage Idaho schools to implement restrictions on cell phone use by the end of the 2024-2025 academic year. Schools adopting this policy will receive a one-time award of $5,000.

Governor Little emphasized the growing concern over cell phones in the classroom, stating, “When kids are more concerned about what’s happening on their cell phones than what they are learning in class, we need to respond.” Superintendent Critchfield highlighted research indicating that cell phones affect students’ focus and brain development, expressing that such policies are a step toward improved academic success.

Addilyn Lewis, a senior from Owyhee High School, spoke in favor of the initiative, sharing her experience with a phone-free policy in her school. “My grades have gone up, and I feel more productive,” she said. Parents in the West Ada School District, where phone restrictions are already in place, also shared positive feedback, noting improved grades and focus among students.

The initiative signals potential future collaboration with the Idaho Legislature to establish a more permanent statewide policy on cell phone use in schools.

The Phone Free Learning Act can be found at this link: https://gov.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/eo-2024-11.pdf

Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors, or SHIBA, will host a Medicare review workshop in north central Idaho next week.

SHIBA’s workshop is planned 2-3 p.m. Thursday at the Orofino Senior Center, located at 930 Michigan Ave., according to a news release.

To register for the workshop, call SHIBA at 1-800-247-4422.

Medicare is in open enrollment — when people can enroll in new plans or modify existing coverage for prescription drugs or Medicare Advantage plans — until Dec. 7.

“It is important to review your Medicare plan annually,” Idaho Department of Insurance Director Dean Cameron said in the news release. “Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug plans can change each year, including premiums, provider networks, co-pays / co-insurance, pharmacy networks, covered drugs and extra benefits. The SHIBA Medicare Review Workshop is a free opportunity for consumers to ensure their plan is the best plan for their current health needs.”

An Idaho Department of Insurance service, SHIBA offers free information about Medicare benefits and help through personal counseling and events like workshops and group presentations, according SHIBA’s website.