Cell phones in high school

Oh the joys of cell phones. Many people own one and use it liberally throughout the day. When the technology first began making waves, high school students faced a bit more backlash for using cell phones. Today, it would appear the use of this now age-old technology has reached a happy medium in terms of policy and use. Many schools have rules set for technology use.  Yet,only some reflect the growing trend that students can use their phones responsibly.

Many high school districts across the country have some  policy in regards to not only cell phone use, but other digital devices such as blackberries and mp3 players. These policies are similar and hit middle ground with students and faculty. Under these rules students are not allowed to use their phones during class time. The consequences of this infraction result in cell phone confiscation. Repeatedly breaking the rules set down the school results in school officials contacting the parents.

Some schools allow students to use their technology between classes, during lunch, and after school believing it curtails having to enforce rules. Principal Rod Smith of EHOVE high school in Ohio felt it helps students become more responsible, telling the Sandusky Register:

“I think the students understand what we're trying to do," he said. "If they're going to set the stage for the future in our schools and set policy, I think they're going to live up to it."

This is a step away from the first attempts to regulate cell phone. Back in 2008 when the issue of cell phones in high schools was first coming to light, school districts were trying to figure out how adjust to the fact students even had cell phones. High school students and faculty saw cell phone potential in different ways. In Salt Lake City, students did not view the use of their cell phones as a problem while faculty viewed cell phone use as something that needed to be stopped. Some school districts, like Saranac Lake (see video below), took the approach of an all out ban.
 


Even today, other schools still believe strict enforcement of the rules is the best way to go. The Mukilteo School district in Lynnwood WA, is working on banning the use of telecommunication devices, including cell phones during school hours. One principal in the district, Mike Gallagher believes this is a way to protect students from such dangers as cyber-bullying.

Some High school students have just about as much use of a cell phone during school as an adult would have during their job. Others still face restrictions regarding their use. However, for the most part, it would appear schools do agree some form of policy must exist in order to create a safe and comfortable learning environment.