Implementation of Revised Cell Phone Policy

A lot has changed since the initial introduction of the cell phone policy this year. The policy, which does not allow phones to be out during class time and was already a part of some classroom norms, became a school-wide rule at the start of this school year.

The student handbook states as follows: "Cell phones should be turned off and out of sight during the school day and may be used, with permission, only in cases of emergency and in the foyer of the main entrance."

The policy was met with generally negative reactions, students were not happy with giving up their phone liberties during class. The policy aimed to decrease classroom distractions and increase student participation.

“It’s a better decision, it’s less of a distraction for people,” said sophomore, Ben Fargo.

Although some were fine with the changes, others were still annoyed with the inconvenience.

“I like to check my phone every now and then,” commented senior, Taryn Opalka.

For most people who did not feel that their phone was a distraction before the ban not being able to check it every now and then during downtime is an aggravation.

Generally, people understood the reasons for the rule but some students feel that their right to property has been taken away. One student said, “It's my phone and my education.” Although this is true, this rule again was already a part of many classrooms.

These and other ideas fueled a quick backlash to the policy. However, most can agree that phones have become commonplace distractions in the school environment.

“I think people have gotten used to it,” said sophomore Cooper Beck, “I certainly have.”

Many students have adapted to the policy and agree that perhaps our initial reactions were a bit too harsh. Most find that not having their phones out on the table has helped them focus more in class.

“I have noticed less kids taking their phones out,” one teacher said. “So I think it has been effective.”

This policy is not going anywhere. Both teachers and students will have to continue to abide by this in order to reduce their distraction and promote a positive learning environment.