North Schuylkill School District has unveiled a comprehensive ban on the use of cellular devices during school hours, sparking discussions about the impact of technology on education.
The ban, set to take effect at the start of the upcoming school year, has generated a mix of reactions from students, parents, and educators.
In an effort to create an environment conducive to focused learning, North Schuylkill High School has taken a bold step by instituting a policy that prohibits students from using their cell phones while on campus. High School Principal Ken Roseberry highlighted that the decision aligns with the school's commitment to enhancing student concentration, reducing distractions, and fostering meaningful in-person interactions among students.
The new policy, accessible on the North Schuylkill School District's website link, outlines the regulations as follows: (https://northschuylkill.net/pdf/hs/cellphonememo.pdf)
Principal Roseberry, alongside High School Vice Principal Nick Sajone and Dean of Students Rob Shaffer, spearheaded the meeting, where they elaborated on the policy's motivations. Roseberry emphasized that while students would be permitted to carry their phones, they would not be allowed to use them during school hours, striking a balance between safety and convenience.
Dean of Students Shaffer emphasized that the policy's primary concern was the usage of phones, rather than their possession. Principal Roseberry further underlined the motivation behind the policy, citing instances where student-recorded events were shared on social media, causing lasting embarrassment for individuals involved.
Administrators also cited insights from other districts that had implemented similar bans, reporting improved social interactions and a shift away from screen-focused activities. According to Dean Shaffer, schools observed increased interactions among students in cafeterias, fostering a more vibrant and engaged environment.
The new policy will be implemented on the first day of school, August 23, 2023. Administrators have committed to reviewing and adapting the policy after each marking period throughout the upcoming school year. The move reflects North Schuylkill's dedication to creating an atmosphere that prioritizes effective learning, meaningful connections, and responsible technology usage.
In an effort to create an environment conducive to focused learning, North Schuylkill High School has taken a bold step by instituting a policy that prohibits students from using their cell phones while on campus. High School Principal Ken Roseberry highlighted that the decision aligns with the school's commitment to enhancing student concentration, reducing distractions, and fostering meaningful in-person interactions among students.
The new policy, accessible on the North Schuylkill School District's website link, outlines the regulations as follows: (https://northschuylkill.net/pdf/hs/cellphonememo.pdf)
- Students are forbidden from using cell phones during school hours unless explicit permission has been granted by the school's administrators for reasons related to safety, emergencies, medical needs, or security.
- Use of cell phones with or without Internet access, recording capabilities, cameras, and other features to capture and distribute images and videos of others without consent is strictly prohibited.
- Cell phones must be kept away during school evacuations, ensuring the safety of all individuals.
- Violations of the policy will lead to confiscation of the device, administrative referrals, and disciplinary actions in accordance with school policies and guidelines.
- Consequences for breaches of the policy include device confiscation, parent/guardian involvement, probation, and potential suspension.
- Students WILL be allowed to use their cell phones for after school activities.
Principal Roseberry, alongside High School Vice Principal Nick Sajone and Dean of Students Rob Shaffer, spearheaded the meeting, where they elaborated on the policy's motivations. Roseberry emphasized that while students would be permitted to carry their phones, they would not be allowed to use them during school hours, striking a balance between safety and convenience.
Dean of Students Shaffer emphasized that the policy's primary concern was the usage of phones, rather than their possession. Principal Roseberry further underlined the motivation behind the policy, citing instances where student-recorded events were shared on social media, causing lasting embarrassment for individuals involved.
Administrators also cited insights from other districts that had implemented similar bans, reporting improved social interactions and a shift away from screen-focused activities. According to Dean Shaffer, schools observed increased interactions among students in cafeterias, fostering a more vibrant and engaged environment.
The new policy will be implemented on the first day of school, August 23, 2023. Administrators have committed to reviewing and adapting the policy after each marking period throughout the upcoming school year. The move reflects North Schuylkill's dedication to creating an atmosphere that prioritizes effective learning, meaningful connections, and responsible technology usage.
Story by J. Reed / Skook News