By Katie Harmon
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont is urging for statewide legislation to crack down on phone usage in schools. His proposals would allow districts to adopt a model policy, outlined by the state, at their discretion.
“I think these phones can really be incredibly distracting in the classrooms and in these schools,” Lamont said during a visit to a Manchester middle school.
Branford High School initiated their own phone policy in 2022. Currently students are required to put their phones in a phone tree or other storage device during class, but are allowed to use phones during passing periods and at lunch.
Lamont spoke in March at Illing Middle School in Manchester, where a strict phone policy has been in place since earlier this year.
In Manchester, students have the option to leave their phones at home, keep them out of sight in their backpacks or lockers, or keep them in a locked Yondr pouch all day. The pouches are carried with students during the day and are not unlocked until dismissal.
Lamont’s proposal has sparked discussions at BHS about the current phone policy.
Several students are upset about Lamont’s proposals.
“It’s unreasonable and unfair. I don’t understand why we wouldn’t be able to have phones outside of class,” said junior Eliza Burgees. “What if I need to contact my parents?”
Freshman Ellie Harmon agreed. “I think it’s dangerous,” she said. “There should be restrictions, but not to that point.”
Some students, however, believe this is a step in the right direction.
“Students have shown time and time again that they cannot handle cell phones responsibly in the classroom,” junior Grace Grammatico said. “The effect that it is having on not only the learning process but communication skills, student interaction, and even student self-confidence and mental health are detrimental to our generation.”
She is one of many who argue that we need stricter enforcement, not only for the benefit of student’s academics, but also to better teach students self-control.
BHS Principal Lee Panagoulious says he would not be in favor of utilizing the Yondr pouches, however, he does believe students need to have phones away in class. He said he believes Branford High School’s current phone policy has been effective.
“If we look compared to two years ago before this policy was in place we are seeing a lot less phones out,” said Panagoulious. “I know it’s hard for students,” he said. “but it’s good, not only for student’s mental health and wellness, but also to really engage in learning.”
Panagoulias continued: “The end goal would be to get to a place where students can manage it themselves.”
