As we all know, the new YHS phone policy has had mixed initial reactions. Many students are heavily against the policy, feeling that they should have the right to their phones throughout the day, while in comparison, many teachers are in support, as they believe phones to be a distraction in their classroom.
People have heard conflicting information regarding where this policy came from or why it was put in place. The decision to lock up phones during the school day came as a result of state legislation requiring schools to have some sort of policy in place for cell phones. Following this, the York School Committee voted to ban cell phones during the school day, in hopes of limiting distractions and increasing focus in the classroom. York Schools Superintendent Tim Doak says, “I call it, ‘Freeing up your mind to be a student and not worrying about anything else.’”
Almost a month into school, and some of the students seem to be adjusting, while others are still strongly against this policy. A YHS student says, “The phone policy has been easier to get used to than I thought it would be. It is hard to stay in contact with people, and it is annoying when I have nothing to do, but I have been more productive during pride and study hall.”
A month into the school year, reactions are still mixed. When polled, 58% of students voted that they are adjusting to not having access to their phones throughout the day. 45% voted that they understand why we have this policy, whereas 32% voted that they do not understand why this policy is in place. Finally, 61% of polled students state that they do not agree with this new policy.
All in all, students seem to be adjusting to the new policy better than expected, however, some students are still struggling to adapt to these new changes.
Resources
Coon, A. (2025, July 22). York School Committee gives initial approval to ban cellphones during school hours. WGME.https://wgme.com/news/local/york-school-board-votes-to-move-forward-with-plan-to-ban-cellphones-in-schools-maine-education-phone-technology
