Across the nation, schools are still trying to figure out how to handle mobile phones in the classroom. Almost every student has a phone, and it’s hard to ignore when it lights up or buzzes during a lesson. Some schools choose to ban phones completely, while others focus on teaching students how to manage them responsibly.
Many teachers believe limits are necessary because distractions are unavoidable. Mrs. Cadman, Vice Principal, explains that “phones can be useful, but they cause far more distractions than benefits during class.” With constant notifications and social media, it’s easy for students to lose focus. Schools that enforce phone restrictions often notice fewer disruptions and better participation during class time.
On the other hand, students argue that strict rules don’t always prepare them for life outside of school. Anisjia, a senior, shared that “once you graduate, there aren’t strict phone rules anymore, so if you never learned how to manage it yourself, it’s way harder.” Since phones are a part of everyday life, learning balance in school can help students develop responsibility and self-control.
Overall, the issue isn’t really the phone itself, but how it’s used. Limiting phones can help students stay focused, but teaching balance helps prepare them for the real world. Schools that find a middle ground give students the best chance to succeed both in the classroom and beyond.
Kids using their phones during the school day.
