Not too long ago South Warren changed the cell phone policy. The purpose of this change was to give students more opportunities to use their phones. Students are now allowed to use cell phones in hallways, restrooms, cafeteria before school, between classes, and during their assigned lunches. This modification has affected many people and has had mostly positive results.

Students seem to like the modified policy. Allison Ackerman stated “It gives me time to socialize between classes, but still stay focused during classes.” Along with Allison, other students appear to really like the new policy. Another student stated that it gave her a chance to get ahold of her parents during the early dismissal when the weather was dangerous. If she hadn’t of had the privilege to have her phone out in between classes, she said it would have been very difficult to get a ride home on time.

According to some of South Warren’s teachers, students aren’t the only ones who feel the cell phone policy is a positive change. Many stated that they have noticed a better focus in class and also more homework is being done. Before  the policy, teachers had some difficulty of getting students focused and on task due to them using their cellular devices. Now that they get the privilege to use their phones more often, students don’t feel the need to disobey the rules by using their phones at the wrong time.
Though the students’ behavior during class is a great benefit from the new policy, it’s not the only one. Administrators have noticed many other positive changes. The number of tardies has decreased. Normally the tardies were averaging around 73 in a five-day week. So far the tardies are now in the range of the early 40’s. (keep in mind we’ve had a lot of snow days) Also, the usage of the front office’s phone has decreased since students are able to contact their parents when needed.

Altogether the new cell phone policy has been a great change to South Warren. Students’ focus has increased, tardies have decreased, and the overall behavior is better. Teachers and administrators believe it’s a brilliant rule. So not only are the students pleased with more freedom, but teachers are also loving the new results!