WHS cell phone policy boosting classroom focus

By Cristina Pikos and Jazz-Lyn Roberts '26

At Wethersfield High School, faculty members and students are debating the role of phones in school. It is one of the most important discussions in the building.

The policy states that when in classes, students’ phones should be placed in a box in a slot with their respective number. While teachers believe phones are a major distraction that hurts learning and teaching, many students argue they need them for communication, safety in case of an emergency and even schoolwork.

According to Vice Principal Ms. Hasler, the cell phone policy was created a couple of years ago when administrators at WHS and other schools throughout Connecticut realized how much time students were spending on their devices. Initially, the governor issued a statement wanting schools to reduce cell phone usage, which led to a press conference at WHS to discuss the policy. While other schools leaned toward Yondr pouches, WHS implemented caddies, eventually leading to phone lockers; if there were ever a need for an evacuation, teachers could grab the portable boxes.

When asked about changes noticed since the policy was implemented, Hasler said, “Definitely, I’ve seen an increase in the amount of productivity in classes.”

She explains that when she first started, students were often texting and not paying attention, with little communication between peers. Compared to now, there is much more conversation between students and teachers, even in hallways where phones are allowed.
“I think this is something that is important not just for schoolwise, but for quality of life-wise,” Hasler said.

If a student does not follow the policy, consequences can follow. While there are not many students who cause issues, repetitive behavior can lead to a “cell phone vacation” in the office vault until the end of the day. Continued violations can result in detention or even in-school suspension. Hasler says there are currently no plans to change the policy, although a complete ban on cell phones in schools was recently brought to the legislature.

“The cell phone policy affects the classroom in a positive way,” said teacher Mrs. Castellanos.

Although it takes time at the beginning of class for students to put their phones up, she finds it worth it because students are not distracted. Before the policy, she felt like she was fighting a losing battle competing with phones for students’ attention. Recently, she has noticed students using Chromebooks to substitute for their phones, but she noted they are easier to monitor.

Castellanos believes students spend so much time on Chromebooks and cell phones that taking a break can be beneficial. She compares school to a job, saying that at work you cannot be on your phone and students should learn responsibility. In the past, when students were given the opportunity to use their phones responsibly, many took advantage by playing games, watching TV and scrolling on TikTok, which puts their education at risk.

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