Schools need more support from parents to get the most out a student phone ban. 

A "phones away for the day" policy's been in place since Term Two last year. 

An Education Review Office report shows two thirds of teachers saw a rise in student achievement, but only half of students are following the rules. 

Head of ERO Education Evaluation Centre Ruth Shinoda told Mike Hosking the number one reason students contravene the ban is to contact family. 

She says parents should phone the school office instead of their child, and shouldn't answer if their child calls. 

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