On Wednesday, November 5th, the Monticello School District headed a teachers in-service meeting— at which the topic of a new phone policy was presented for the high school. Fronted by MHS Spanish teacher, Señora Emilie Walk, this push has struck a great deal of talk amongst the students of Monticello High School.
Sophomore Connor Sheehan explained that phones can get in the way of the learning experience. “When I’m doing homework and get a notification, it immediately grabs my attention. Then I end up on my phone, and it’s hard to put it away and stay focused on schoolwork,” Sheehan said.
Sheehan also revealed that some students may be abusing the privilege to have phones with them. “When students don’t understand their assignments, they often go straight to AI for answers instead of asking the teacher for help,” he continued.
Sophomore Isabella George agreed that they can be a disturbance. She stated, “Phones really do distract people.”
However, George argued that the restriction of phones may not improve things as much as some believe it will. “I don’t think grades will magically go up just because phones are gone. Some students pay attention, and some don’t, with or without a phone.”
Both Sheehan and George stated that there definitely are times when phones are absolutely necessary, such as in the case of an emergency, or for contact and communication with family. Some students may “have to text their parents about rides, practice changes, or stuff happening at home,” elaborated George.
When asked about what new challenges the school may face if this policy takes place, George stated that “students will probably try to sneak their phones, which could cause more drama between teachers and students.”
Though the idea of restricting the use of phones is to boost productivity in students, Sheehan brought up a new perspective, arguing that “it might even make them want to be on their phones more after school instead of starting their homework.” So, the real question begins: does tightening the grip on the students’ devices help them, or does it just send them back even further?
Only time will tell the fate of phones at MHS, and the repercussions that could go either way.
Macie Owen, Staff Writer
owema28@sages.us
The Sage Informer 
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