A new Texas law bans charter and public school students from phone use during the school day. The law prohibited students in grades K-12 from any communication devices used throughout the whole school day including passing periods, recess, lunch etc. Many are worried about the restriction of communication with parents, and their ability to reach their children in an emergency. This law is supposed to help reduce distraction, encourage socialness, improve focus and academic engagement, mental health and prevent cyberbullying. Enforcing this law can help gain back classroom control and student attention.
Public Policies:
- Communications devices taken all day.
- Very restrictive
- The ban applies during school hours
- Expectations could be health, safety, medical reasons, and emergencies.
All Saints’ Policies:
- Can have phones during passing periods
- Own policies based on their community.
Effects on Students:
Positive-
- It could help students focus better and pay attention in class
- Encourage people to socialize more
- Less cheating
- Learn self discipline
Negative-
- Less communication with parents
- No one to contact in case of an emergency
- Test scores going down due to people cheating
