At Estacada High School, a cell phone ban decreed by Governor Tina Kotek has earned enthusiastic praise from both staff and students. Language arts teacher Jeff Mellema, a 24-year veteran, declared the policy a 'breath of fresh air,' crediting it with fostering significantly better classroom discourse, both personal and academic. 'Students can't avoid those conversations anymore with their phones,' Mellema noted, adding the ban brought 'joy back' to his role as an 'old, grumpy teacher.' Governor Kotek visited the school on March 18th to personally assess the policy's impact, meeting with students and administrators. She acknowledged initial uncertainty but expressed gratitude for the positive feedback.

The ban, aimed at reducing classroom disruption and improving focus, is now fully implemented across Oregon's public schools. Kotek emphasized the goal is for students to learn essential social skills without digital interference.