When I posted the news about Corbin High School’s new cell phone policy, I didn’t expect 200+ comments, dozens of shares, and a public debate to follow; however, that is exactly what happened, and I am not entirely surprised.
The comments were filled with passionate individuals, as this is an essential topic in our community. I saw comments of frustration, sarcasm, even a meme at one point, but it was all wrapped into one underlying theme: people care.
In case you missed it, Corbin High School has implemented a new cell phone policy in response to Kentucky law KRS 158.165, which restricts phone use during instructional time. To enforce this, they have decided to use Yondr pouches to create a “phone-free” environment. Principal Shannon Dixon referred to their previous policy, “See It-Take It,” as an “ineffective tool for teachers.”
As a former teacher who is closer in age to the students, I have a unique perspective on this issue. I believe that phones can be problematic in schools, especially when it comes to bullying. As social media evolves, so does the way bullying can happen. I understand the reasoning behind implementing a cell-phone ban, especially when schools are tasked with protecting students from digital harm while also trying to uphold classroom focus.
Although I understand the reasons behind this law, I, like many others, find this ban to be somewhat extreme.
Technology has become an essential tool in everyday life, and it isn’t going anywhere. Instead of trying to eliminate it, we should embrace it and explore ways to utilize it effectively. Phones are important to students, and they can actually enhance engagement in the classroom if used appropriately.
For instance, in my AP English class during high school, we were allowed to use our phones to access Google Classroom, which facilitated academic discussions. Our work was focused because the task was meaningful. That’s the key. When students are engaged in what they’re learning, phones aren’t the problem. I enjoyed using technology as an educational tool, and I believe it is important for students to understand that phone usage isn’t inherently bad. They shouldn’t be punished for recognizing its benefits.
Of course, I recognize that not every classroom experience is the same. Some educators feel overwhelmed by the constant challenge of managing phones, and that’s valid. I taught second grade, so phone usage wasn’t a problem for my class. However, I have friends who taught middle and high school, and I have heard their complaints. Teaching is hard enough without adding “phone monitor” to the job description.
Another common concern is that allowing phones in class could lead to more cheating. However, cheating existed long before cell phones.
Although students appear to have been included in the discussion, the presentation focused on only one piece of data from students: 83.6% of students reported that their friends and classmates are not distracted by their phones during class or the school day. The ban does not take into consideration students’ feedback.
At the end of the day, if there is an emergency, we have to trust that teachers and staff alike want the best for our kids. Teachers don’t get enough credit for the amount of love and care they have for their students.
Whether you agree with the policy or not, the better question is: are we listening to each other? Are we listening to our kids? If we genuinely care about our kids and their education, we must be willing to listen to them, as well.
