Dozens of students have felt the impact of the new cell phone ban this school year, bringing both challenges and unexpected changes to daily life on campus. While the policy was created to limit distractions, it has stirred mixed emotions, from frustration to understanding.
“I personally feel like the phone ban in school is a good idea. I know that phones are a big distraction for students, but it has impacted me by causing a lot of extra work in the office,” campus secretary Kim Barker said. “I know it’s just the beginning of school and, like, it will get easier as we go, but it has been a huge workload.”
The ban, which was passed at the state level and not by the school itself, has left administrators and staff in the middle of enforcing the law. Angry parents and upset students have turned the front office into a constant hub of activity.
“I do think that it’s good for kids because we are too addicted to technology,” attendance Shannon Rutledge said. “It has impacted me just because I’m having to deal with so many angry parents and students that are upset their phones have been taken.”
Other staff echoed the frustration that the new rule has brought..
“I just respond by letting people know that it was not something our school decided,” Barker said. “It was those above us—the government powers, Congress. They decided it, and it was really their call.”
“It’s a law that we are having to follow, and our job is simply to enforce it,”Mrs. England added. “But it doesn’t make it easier when we are faced with complaints every day.”
Students, however, are also adjusting to the loss of their phones and the changes in routine it brings.
“I think the cell phone ban is a really good idea because finally seeing some students’ eyes, not walking around with their heads down, and they’re getting a break from social media,” senior Tatianna Torre said.
While the adjustment has been difficult, the new rule has sparked conversations about balance, self-control, and the role of technology in students’ lives. Just like past changes in schools, students and staff are learning to adapt—together
“I used to text my parents about rides or schedules, and now I don’t see those messages until after school,” senior Feranmi Ogundele said. “It makes some things harder, even if it does help us focus more in class.”
