This recent implementation of a phone ban in Virginia schools has sparked debate among staff, students, and parents. The administration really wanted to crack down on our problems we struggle with yearly. The new policy aimed at reducing distractions and improving academic performances by guidance from Governor Glenn Youngkin
A main reason behind the ban is the growing concern that student’s attention span and academic performance has been negative. Studies say that phones decrease concentration and lower test scores. By removing this distraction, our school hopes to create a more conductive learning environment.
However, parents have shared their opinions about how they feel. Some say that it may be too restrictive. They argue that phones are essential for communication, especially in emergencies.
Students also seem to have varying opinions on this new policy, including senior Ayron Wu.
“I think it’s more of a safety concern, because if something happens while we’re at school, we can’t access our phones,” said Wu.
Students are concerned that they may not be able to contact their loved ones in the case of an emergency.
On the other hand, some students have other opinions on the issue.
Senior Yusuf Aliyev is a supporter of the new policy and believes there are benefits to it.
“I definitely think there are some benefits to the new phone policy, I think it would really help students’ grades start to rise, and less distractions in class” said Aliyev.
Along with many of the students, administration also agrees there are benefits to the new policy. Principal Mike Craft believes this new policy helps cut down on distractions in the classrooms.
“Electronic devices distract from learning, the government did not mandate the new phones rule. We’ll have a plan by the first of January, but the main reason for this new policy is to cut down on distractions in the classroom” said Craft.
The new phone policy is not mandatory, and is up to each individual school to come up with a plan that meets these guidelines. Students need to plan and prepare for seeing new guidelines in the school on phones on the first of January.
For more information, see VDOE info.
