Some Galileo students are finding it difficult to adjust to the school’s stricter enforcement of its phone policy, a change implemented following Dr. Rogers’ arrival as the new principal this year. To explore students’ preferences, the Galileo Press asked them, “If you were the principal, what would your cell phone policy be at school?”
“I would support teachers’ decisions for what they wanted to do for their classes, but I think ultimately a cell phone-free zone is probably best for teenagers (and adults), because we have trouble focusing when we have our devices.”
-Ms. Talbot, Counselor
“If I were principal, I would have the kids bring in their cell phones to the auditorium or what have you at the beginning of the school day so it’s not even an issue as it comes into first period class. I think more and more schools are starting to do that.”
-Mr. O’Connor, U.S. History H, Economics, American Democracy Teacher
“I would take cell phones away. I understand that they need them for emergency reasons–to communicate with their parents, or with their friends even sometimes during passing period, or at lunch I think it’s appropriate. During class time I think they should be put away at all times. They’re more of a distraction than anything.”
-Ms. Domine, Health Teacher
“I like the pockets on the wall, it works for me pretty well because then you’re holding students accountable but if there’s an emergency or something they can use it.”
-Lee Shimmel, English Teacher
“I would be a little strict on no cell phones when [students] are in elective classes and language classes, but other than that I think be loose with it. I think all the teachers should follow the same rule where there are no cell phones at all during elective classes. But I guess AP classes or whatever, cell phones are ok.”
-Carol G., Senior
“I’d say just keep it in your backpacks as long as you take it out whenever the teacher wants. It’s their policy because it’s their classroom. I just think as long as you’re not on it in class, it’s fine. You shouldn’t have to put it in a caddy thingy. Some students don’t actually go on their phone, but if they’re on it the whole time you should take it away.”
-Lilian R., Sophomore
“I don’t like how the current principal is executing her plan. I feel like yes, phones should be restricted, but not in this way. What if someone has an emergency?”
-Emily Y., Senior
“I feel like wouldn’t make students put it in the caddy. I probably wouldn’t let them have it in class. I would let them have it in their pockets or their bag.”
-Eamon C., Freshman
“I’d let people have their cell phones, because what if somebody needs help with their stuff and they need a calculator, or we don’t know something and we need to search it up?”
-Clarissa L., Junior
“I would say students are allowed to use their phones as long as they’re not too distracted, but I don’t think phones should just be taken away for the whole class time.”
-Angelina V., Senior
“I would let people have their phones because they need their phones. Like what if I need to call my mom or something?”
-Steffie V., Junior
“The students can keep [phones] in their pockets, but if it’s seen out, the teachers would have to take them and give them to me. Y’all youngens need to learn. You shouldn’t have your phone out in school.”
-Jeremiah K., Freshman
