Cell phones in the classroom have been an ongoing struggle between teachers and students.
“When I was a teacher, I spent the first six weeks of school battling students trying to get them to put their cell phones away,” school counselor Jessica Miller said.
Many teachers have their students put their phones away. Some teachers even have a designated area for cell phones.
“I feel like putting your phone in a pouch is not the best. I’m almost 18 years old. That should be my choice because it’s my grade,” senior Zach Sullins said.
Students share their mixed opinions regarding the newest phone policy.
“I think it’s a good policy because we can have our phones out when we want to.” freshman Sarah Warner said.
Some students have strong view points that cell phones can be used as helpful tools within the classroom space.
“I feel like having a phone out is beneficial if you need to research something. I mean, I guess I can understand how it can be distracting at the same time.” freshman Scarlett Wepler said.
Some staff members believe that the new policy is beneficial to students’ learning and that if there were consistent expectations among all classrooms, it would become a habit.
“If it’s followed through well, it will help produce a more helpful learning environment.” ELA teacher Savannah Bedwell said.
The new cell phone policy is not the only change at LNHS, there has also been a recent switch from physical to electronic IDs through the smart pass system.
“Most students have a phone, it’s a good idea because then you don’t lose it.” Bedwell said.
Although most students enjoy the new IDs, students and staff question whether the new student IDs will be accepted at other schools and buildings.
“I wonder if you wanted to get a discount somewhere if they would recognize an ID on your phone,” Miller said.
Several students think that physical IDs shouldn’t be fully taken away.
“Sometimes my phone could be dead and I would need that physical ID. So I feel like we should do both,” Sullins said.