This year, Central High School, along with all other Hamilton County schools, has rolled out a new wireless device policy aimed at reducing distractions in the classroom. Under the new rules, students are no longer allowed to use their personal cell phones or similar portable wireless devices—such as tablets, earbuds, or gaming devices—at any point during the school day. Instead, these devices must be turned off or placed on airplane mode and stored out of sight in a backpack, purse, locker, or car.
The administration says the policy is designed to help students stay focused on learning, “We’ve seen how cell phones can interfere with both instruction and student interaction. This policy isn’t about punishment—it’s about giving students the best environment possible to learn and succeed,” said one school administrator.
Violations of the policy, however, come with serious consequences. For a first offense, a teacher will take the phone and deliver it to the office, where the student can retrieve it at the end of the day after a parent has been notified. A second violation means the phone is kept for three school days and must be picked up by a parent or guardian. A third violation extends the hold to seven school days, while a fourth violation results in the phone being held for thirty school days and the loss of the privilege to bring any wireless device to campus for the rest of the semester or school year.
Some students support the policy, saying it helps keep them on task. “Honestly, I think it’s a good idea,” said a student. “I used to check my phone in class without even thinking about it, and it definitely distracted me. Now I don’t have the option, so I pay more attention.”
Others, however, believe the rules are too strict. Another student shared his concern: “I understand not wanting us on our phones during class, but not being able to use it at lunch or in the hallways feels like too much. Sometimes I just want to text my mom or check something quick between classes.”
Teachers have noticed changes as well. Some teacher said, “It’s been a noticeable difference. Students are making more eye contact and participating more in discussions. Of course, some students are frustrated, but overall I think it’s been positive.”
Still, not everyone is convinced. Another student argued that the policy doesn’t account enough for student responsibility. “We’re almost adults,” she said. “Instead of treating us like kids, I think the school should trust us to manage our phones better. If we mess up, then it should affect our grades, not take our phones away for weeks.”
The administration notes that exceptions do exist for emergencies, medical needs, and students with IEP or 504 accommodations. In those cases, students are allowed to use their devices with staff permission. Additionally, all confiscated devices are securely stored in a locked cabinet or safe, with detailed records kept of each incident.
For now, the policy is in full effect, and both students and teachers are adjusting to the changes. Whether it becomes a long-term success will likely depend on how well it balances reducing distractions with respecting student independence. As the administrator summarized, “We know this is an adjustment for everyone, but our goal is to create a school culture where learning comes first. We’ll continue to listen to feedback and make sure the policy works for our students.”
At Central High, the debate continues—but one thing is certain: phones are no longer the constant presence they once were during the school day.
