The new cell phone policy is one of the largest changes to the handbook this year.
“Phones are allowed to be used by grades 9-12 during lunch only between 8:10-3:10. They are to be away in a student locker at other times,” said Assistant Principal Adam Stroud.
This is a significant change from last year’s policy, under which students in grades 9-12 could have phones on them but not use them unless permitted by a teacher.
The new law says that schools must adopt a cell phone policy and implement it effectively. As of July 1, 2024, laws were passed forbidding students from using wireless communication devices during instructional time.
“Indiana Legislation put new laws in place and gave guidance. Those were implemented into our policy,” said Stroud.
Many surrounding schools are also undergoing adjustments to their policies.
In the Orleans High School handbook, high school students can use cell phones before and after school and during lunch if they do not provide an educational distraction. According to Springs Valley’s handbook, students’ devices cannot cause disruption and must stay out of sight.
The effects of this rule change are still being observed, and only time will tell if the change in cell phone use in the classroom has the impact lawmakers and school leaders intended.
This new school rule was not just created to get phones out of classrooms. Cell phones have a significant impact not only on classroom distractions but also on mental health across the country. A study published in 2022 showed that undergrads at the New York Institute of Technology who spent six weeks learning without cell phones showed fewer signs of anxiety and stress in the classroom.
The Washington Post reported that “pressure on school leaders has come from teachers and parents who see cell phones as a distraction, an impediment to learning and a consistent toll on students’ mental health.”
These adjustments are being made to improve mental health in school and create a more productive environment in the classroom. One classroom has already seen the effects of the cell phone change.
“Productivity has skyrocketed, and classroom distractions have plummeted. Kids are responding well to the new rules. I think they are enjoying school more. They’re far more engaged in their school experience, and they’re getting to know their classmates better,” said Art Teacher Chris Jones.