Phones have become a very important part of everyone’s life, maybe almost too important. In schools, most teens are glued to their phones, even in class. Teachers and administrators have caught on and have decided to do something about it.
Massachusetts has recently implemented a new rule in most schools. The rule requires students to leave their phone in designated pouches during school hours. This initiative aims to reduce distractions and enhance the learning environment.
The decision to introduce this rule was driven by concerns over the negative impact of smartphones on students’ academic performance and social interactions. Teachers and administrators noticed that phones were not only a source of distraction, but also contributed to issues like cyberbullying and reduced face-to-face communication among students. While some parents and students expressed concerns about the new policy, many educators believe it will lead to a more productive and engaging classroom experience.
In the article, “Mass. schools are cracking down on cellphones in class. It’s putting teachers and students at odds” by James Vaznis, Auzzy Byrdsell and Steph Ware, Globe Staff, and Globe Correspondent talks about how there are harmful effects of social media and cyberbullying. With the new ban on phones, teachers have noticed “Increased academic achievement” and “Disruptive behavior has decreased.” This is because not having cell phones allows students to focus on their work without distractions and to be more engaged in class activities. They also noticed phones taking a toll on students’ mental health. Social media makes it very easy for people to compare themselves to one another, and the desire for validation through how many likes and comments you get can lead to teens feeling worthless or not good enough.
Most students also experience “FOMO” (fear of missing out) from not being able to look at their social media throughout the day. Having “FOMO” can make students check their phones during a lesson which can make them miss the instructions and make their grades drop.
Some students from Ipswich High School also say having no cell phones helps their mental health. “It is better for our mental health,” a student said. “Our phones are kind of ruining school. People are always on their phones and not talking with [each other].” Other kids disagreed, saying that there is a greater amount of stress that comes from homework and school than social media.
At Pentucket, students are told to put their phone in the “cell hotel,” which are numbered pouches for each person’s phone to sit in during the entire class. Students are also not allowed to use their cell phones in the hallways, only in a study hall or at lunch.
There are a lot of mixed feelings on this new rule. Ms Decoste, a teacher at Pentucket, loves the new rule and has already seen some changes in the first few weeks. She believes that kids not being on their phones makes them more engaged and eager to learn. When asked if students should be allowed their phones when they complete all their work she said, “I don’t think so, because it’s nice seeing kids actually socializing with one another.” She expressed how in the previous years students were always on their phones never talking to one another. Now she sees students coming out of their comfort zone by talking to people sitting around them. Ms Decoste also said how the new phone rule gives her more time to help certain students one-on-one who may need it.
Kalleigh Metcalf, a junior, said, “I don’t mind the new phone rule. I just find it annoying, especially as a junior. We should be trusted with our phones because we’re older and know the right time to be on them. I think that we don’t need the cell hotel and should be trusted to keep them turned off and put away.” She also expressed how she hasn’t noticed any improvement in the amount of work she gets done with or without her phone.
An anonymous student says, “I hate the new phone rule. I think we should just keep our phones in our pockets because what about the students who work? Or need to stay in touch with their family? Being unable to have their phones makes that difficult.”
Overall, the new phone rule in school has sparked mixed reactions. Some people hate it, feeling that it restricts their freedom and disconnects them from their social media. On the other hand, some people like it, believing that it helps reduce distractions and improve focus in the classroom. Ultimately, the rule’s success will depend on how well it balances these differing perspectives and addresses the needs of both students and educators.
