There is already an implied phone policy at SPF, but as the number of students who use smartphone devices like iPhones and Androids increases, there needs to be specific guidelines about phone usage during school hours.
When students are caught using their phones during class, many teachers will just give a warning; however, some are not as lenient. For example, many English teachers have a container where students must place their phones until the end of class.
“I think when teachers collect all phones at the start of class or have a specific place in the room for phones it is a violation of our rights,” Maya Waldman said. “It also places assumption of guilt on students for the possibility that they will be disruptive on their phone.”
Many students complain about having to put their phones in the containers at the start of class because they could be missing out on family emergencies, or need to stay in contact with someone. Some students have to pick up siblings or arrange rides home from school on a daily basis. When phones are collected, it prevents students from making these plans.
Teachers, on the other hand, argue that when students have their phones on them, it’s a distraction and in all reality, texting your brother or sister, or anyone for that matter, is not an emergency when you should be learning.
In between classes, students have upwards of five minutes to get where they need to be. This time can also be used for texting and calling. A cafeteria is also a great place for students to use their phones without being hassled by a teacher.
“You just have to be nice and respectful to teachers and there shouldn’t be any problems with them taking your phone away,” Nick Susino said.
Overall, it seems like, with the new modern technology, phones are here to stay, and only SPF students can decide what actions will be taken to restrict phone usage in school zones.