The phone rules at Osbourn have changed as a part of new state laws and because the school wants everyone to focus more in class. Principal Dr. Chapman said that the phone policy “Has been in place in some way since last year, but has changed a little because of the state law and has become a renewed rule.” That means that the school already had some rules about phones last year, but the new state laws made them change the policy a bit. These changes are to make sure the school follows the law and also to help control the usage of phones during the day.

The rules say, “When school is in session, phones are off and away with no access, and the expectation for the staff is to take phones away from students if seen.” This means students cannot use their phones or even have them out where they can see or touch them while they are in class during the school day. If a student is caught using their phone, teachers and staff are supposed to take the phone away right away. This rule is meant to stop phones from distracting students so they can focus more on learning.

Dr. Chapman also said the new phone rules are already making a difference at school. She said, “Our SOL achievements have gone up, our grades went up, and students are less distracted.” This means that since the school started following the new policy, students are doing better on their tests and getting higher grades. The rule makes it easier for them to learn and succeed.”

Dr. Chapman thinks the changes are good for the whole school because when students pay attention, it helps everyone.

Ms. Johnson, an assistant principal, said, “Most kids are compliant, but a couple of students don’t comply. For the most part, the hallways are the hardest.” This means that while most students kept their phones off and put away like they were supposed to, a few didn’t follow the rules. Ms. Johnson also pointed out that it was especially difficult to keep track of phone use in the hallways between classes because that’s where students are moving around a lot. 

 Some students understand why the policy is in place, even if it’s not always easy to follow. “I understand why the school put the policy in place. Phones can be distracting, so I get why they have phones banned,” said Ashley Ramirez.

Some students think the new phone rule is actually better than last year’s. Augustin Castaneda Martinez said, “I like it better than last year because we don’t need to put phones in a box.” Last year, teachers made the students put their phones in a special box at the start of each class. Now, students just have to keep their phones off and put them away in their book bags during the school day. 

Nashawn said, “People are more focused on work because there are no phones.” Nashawn saw that people are more focused on their work when there are no phones around. Without the constant distractions like messages or social media, students can concentrate better and stay on task. 

Jayden Richard added, “I concentrate more and get my work done faster and more efficiently.” 

 Avana Lavora Diaz suggested a minor change. “I would change the rule by allowing students to use their phones while the teachers aren’t teaching or talking, like when we have free time.”

When Destyni Payne was asked how she felt about the no-phone policy, she said, “I don’t like it because I feel like I can’t enjoy my senior year to the fullest and make memories.” For her, phones are a way to capture special moments and stay connected with friends, so the policy makes this harder.

How are YOU feeling about the phone policy this year? Tell us in the comments!