No Cell Phones (Hot Take)

The students, administrators, and teachers here at WGHS gave their thoughts and opinions on the controversial new cell phone policy, with some approving it while others condemn it.
by DaNija Thomas

Ja’Liyah Parks (11) feels as if the no-cell-phone policy is both helpful and challenging. While Avalyn Godoy (12) and Kyli Gallashaw (11) call it dumb and stupid. Avalyn is worried that her mother would be unable to contact her in the event of an emergency. Additionally, Kyli explains that she feels the ban should be on a class-by-class basis. “If the teacher didn’t like it, then it should be for their class and not the whole district.” Neither of them like this policy but they have to deal with it anyways.” However, Ja’Liyah argues its effectiveness in the classroom, “Yes, I think it does help students concentrate because they aren’t worried about checking messages or social media,” stated Ja’Liyah. But Avalyn and Kyli feel as if it only helps to a certain extent. “Yes it [helps], but everyone listens to music to help them focus so we often start talking or drifting away from our work,” Avalyn explained. They are all still talking to the same people as before, but Ja’Liyah believes it lets students engage with others more.

However, Coach Cockerm (administrator) and Ms. Bond (teacher) both really like this new policy. “I love this policy, and I feel it has been needed for quite some time.” Ms. Bond explained. “I think it is one of the best decisions that have been made in education over the past 20 years.” Coach Cockerm also stated. They both love this decision, although Ms. Bond feels like it helps the teachers as well because they don’t have to keep reminding students to put away phones. They both think that it helps students concentrate in class. Coach Cockerm said, “...I have talked to several teachers, and they say students are more engaged because  of this policy.” Ms. Bond adds, “Without phones buzzing or screens pulling attention away, students are much more engaged in lessons and discussions.” They both also feel as if students have become more face-to-face with one another and communicate better.

Despite the controversial nature of the policy, it seems that it is something that students will have to withstand until graduation. Overall, the policy has its pros and cons. We can only wait to see the true effectiveness of the policy in time.