The usage of technological devices has become immensely high nowadays– many students are spending hours on end on their electronics, letting their phones consume their lives and distract them from their school work. Unfortunately, as this habit continues to grow, many believe that the usage of cell phones is starting to affect students’ ability to work proactively in school.

At Troy Athens High School, a strict policy has been imposed, stating that students are not allowed to have their phones out in their classrooms. 

The Athens phone policy states, “No technology will be taken to the bathroom during class and technology must be kept in a backpack or locker.”

The impact the phone ban is intended to have on students is a good one, but it is not realistic to restrict phone use at all times.

Bella Fay, a sophomore at Athens High School, spoke out about her thoughts on this phone ban.

“In some situations where I need to use my phone to make an important call, I should be able to. In that case, I probably would want to change the ban.”

Although phones are an extremely addicting tool, they are also very reliable and in society, they have developed into becoming a safety source. The only way for students to express emergencies when they are at school and away from their family is to communicate with them by using their phones. Many students are arguing that cell phones are a right, not a privilege– so students should be able to contact their families in case of an emergency. In some situations, such as lockdowns, trips outside of the school and personal emergencies, students may need to access their phones. The policy makes it much more inconvenient for students to access their phones and get swift help. 

Komal Yedla, a Troy High School junior, believes that the phone ban was both good and bad. He discussed his thoughts on why he thinks this.

“I wouldn’t completely agree with it…but it is understandable because a lot of students use their phones to cheat.”

Although many are advocating for the phone ban to be discarded, it is very important to realize how phone addictions are affecting students. Many students spend eight hours a day in school on their phones, distracted instead of listening to material being taught. Because of this, the future for school systems may start to change. In the near future, will Troy High School follow behind the steps of Athens High School and implement a similar policy?