Should Phones Be Banned in Schools?
The debate over phone use in schools has resurfaced, with a potential law threatening to ban devices altogether. This issue has sparked diverse opinions among students, particularly freshmen, highlighting both the benefits and potential drawbacks of such a policy.
A Controlled Policy Works
Many students, like freshman Camilo Naranjo, appreciate the current phone policy that permits controlled use. Naranjo explains, “The phone policy at school is good; they let us use our phones in a controlled way.” Phones serve practical purposes, from finding friends during lunch to contacting parents in emergencies. Naranjo argues that banning
phones entirely could negatively impact student performance, removing a key tool for communication and personal freedom.
Phones as an Emergency Lifeline
Freshman Arya Nadari echoes similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of phones for emergencies. “Phones should be on students in case of emergencies,” Nadari asserts. Nadaria views a complete ban as unnecessary and believes the current policy strikes a reasonable balance.
Government’s Push for a Ban
The potential for a government-mandated ban on phones in schools has heightened the stakes of this debate. Supporters of the ban argue that phones are a distraction that hinders academic performance and classroom focus. However, students like freshman Derek Lee suggest that a sweeping ban may not address the root causes of disengagement.
Instead, Lee notes that, “It’s better than middle school because we weren’t allowed to have our phones at all,” pointing out that current policies already regulate phone use in many schools.
Critics of the ban worry it could create additional challenges, such as limiting communication in emergencies or removing a valuable resource for time management and productivity. The government’s role in education is vital, but decisions like this should consider the voices of students, parents, and educators to ensure practical outcomes.
The Bigger Picture
While opinions differ, the underlying message is clear: phones play a significant role in students’ daily lives. A thoughtful approach, balancing access with accountability, may be the best solution. Completely banning phones risks alienating students who rely on them for practical and personal needs.
As the potential law looms, schools must weigh the benefits of communication and freedom against the challenges of distraction. A compromise that respects students’ needs while maintaining a focus on education could offer the best of both worlds.
