New Phone Ban Causes Outrage

Many schools across Florida have been subjected to new rules regarding students’ use of cellphones in class. Florida Statute 1006.07 (2) allows students to have cellphones in their possession and requires each district to make rules about how cellphones are used in school.

In May, Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 1035 outlining the rights of teachers to control and discipline students in their classroom—which includes the use of cell phones. Lyman has allowed the continued use of cellphones in the hallways and during lunch but not during class.

Students like Jayden Werner (11) found the phone ban unnecessary when they mostly use electronic devices when they have free time, for class assignments, or catching up with friends.

“We’ve had years of education where phones were a thing [in school] and that’s never been an issue before now. So, I don’t know why it’s such an issue now. The worst case scenario is [the school] deciding that you’re not allowed to have your phone out at all, or even bring it to school.”

Many teachers are enforcing the cell phone ban with phone pouches. Teachers who did not already have one were given the iconic blue and yellow ones seen across campus.

“[Teachers] don’t use the phone pouch anyway, so it’s not working. If I was a teacher, I would just watch the students and make sure they are doing the assignment they are supposed to,” Broderick Starling (11) said.

However, it is not as easy to monitor as Starling proposes. Emma Olds (10) understands the reasoning behind putting up phones: “Kids were talking while the teacher was teaching and they’re just on their phones ignoring them. It’s rude and just disrespectful.”

Although there are new rules put in place for this school year regarding cell phone use, this is not the first time that cell phone use has been restricted. While previously a school policy, the change to state law has teachers actively enforcing the new rule.

“Last year, [limiting cell phone usage] wasn’t enforced very well as many of the teachers eventually stopped caring.” Sherman Hall (11) said. “But this year they seem more stern about it. I think in upcoming years they will definitely have an iron grasp on the situation of cell phone use.”

Most students bring up the point that with the increased demand for assignments turned in on eCampus and other digital means, it’s impossible to not have their phone to complete them.

“Maybe have that student stay after school if they can and use the media center,” Mr. Samuel Davis, one of the school administrative managers, said as a solution to the issue. “If a parent can get a student to a local library, they will be able to access their work there. Those [are] the best choices where they’ll have access to a computer.”

If you are interested in a library card or if you need access to a computer, you can go to: Seminole County’s website and fill out the form to have your library card mailed to you.

Or go in person to one of the five library locations in Seminole County: