Onteora High School students are grappling with a new policy enacted this year banning phones and other electronic accessories. The idea behind the shift is to decrease distraction and other negative impacts that phones have on students. But not all students agree with the change.
“I disagree with the policy,” said ninth grade student Lilah Signore. “In classes it’s understandable to not use it if the teacher is not okay with it. It should be their choice. But in the hallways and at lunch we should be able to.”
The school’s phone policy was written by Lance Edelman, principal of the high school, and “Considers the potential for distraction and additional problems,” deeming all equipment turned off and not visible (including accessories) during the school hours (7:40-2:35).
For the past few years, the use of phones in schools was permitted. So news of the policy came as culture shock through the halls for a generation who grew up on “screen time” and now has to take a step back.
Junior Lucia McDonough also disagrees with this decision, but for different reasons. McDonough said, “I disagree with it because I want to be able to use my Kindle. But I don’t care about not using my phone.”
Freshman Vivienne Lamb expresses her understanding of both sides: “I disagree with it, but I also agree that sometimes you should not be able to use it. It can be a distraction in classrooms and from learning.”
Principal Lance Edelman told The Overlook that since implementing the new guidelines, faculty have noticed a positive transformation in the school. “We’re seeing more meaningful conversations during lunch periods, increased participation in class discussions, and stronger interpersonal connections – social skills that were previously being diminished by excessive social media use,” Edelman said. “This positive shift affirms that creating boundaries around technology use can enhance both academic performance and social development.”
High school math teacher Jessica Morra agrees. “In terms of classrooms, it’s been a game changer. Students are less distracted. There are more conversations, and I can get to know students more in free periods.”
A Student’s Perspective
As a student at Onteora, I can see that the phone ban definitely provides fewer distractions. While I didn’t experience being able to have my phone in school before the ban, I can imagine the consequences they might bring.
Being born in a generation where phones are so common, I believe they could play a crucial role in school safety during emergencies. Phones are an integral part of our lives, and rather than banning them, we should consider how they can enhance student safety. Just as we use Chromebooks for learning, phones could serve as a vital tool in emergency situations.
One major concern with restricting phone use is the ability to quickly contact emergency services or family members during a crisis. While some students may have easy access to a teacher or administrator, not everyone has that option. Although the school office allows calls, sending a quick text or making an immediate call could be more practical in urgent situations. Phones could also be life-saving in cases of medical emergencies in locker rooms or bathrooms where an adult may not be present. In emergency scenarios like lockdowns or natural disasters, having access to a phone could provide critical communication, ensuring student safety.
As we experience this new frontier without phone screens during school, we will have to reconnect with our heads up and smiles for one another. I guess dropping the “media” from “social media” will be our new norm—at least between 7:40 and 2:35.
Philanthe LaMonda is a ninth grade student at Onteora High School. Send correspondence to reporting@theoverlooknews.com.
