Return of the “New” Phone Policy

This school year, Charlotte Catholic is reinforcing the phone policy that was in place pre-Covid. Several students were shocked by the drastic change. In previous years, phones were allowed at break and lunch. Students found the policy convenient and used their devices throughout the day. Per the 2023-2024 handbook “students are not permitted to use cell phones, smart watches, tablets or ear buds on campus between 7:40 a.m and 2:35 p.m.” The policy is certainly a change for students, as most upperclassmen have become accustomed to the old policy.

Before the school year started, administrators made a decision to change the policy. After only two days of school, students noticed significant differences in the policy. Senior Makenna Wylde said, “this was unexpected considering last year's lenience.” Last year, the policy was difficult to enforce and not all students interpreted it in the same way. . Mr. Telford presented students with the Social Media and Youth Mental Health study, published by The U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory. This study dives into how teens are affected by technology and social media. It mainly focuses on how social media and constant screen time can increase stress, anxiety, and even depression.

Mr. Owens points out some effects from the pandemic that students still face. He stated “despite it being over, we are still seeing the effects. Some of that is in socialization and study habits that we have to relearn.” The administration changed the policy in hopes students would have fewer distractions, increased socialization, and less social media stress during school. Mr. Owens clarified, “The goal is not to take peoples cell phones. What we really want to do is to create a joy-filled learning environment.”

Multiple responses from the student poll we conducted indicate the policy may actually increase students’ stress, as they cannot continuously contact their parents. Others mention they miss important messages from parents, employers, and coaches.

One student said “It's a good idea in theory, but it's also really inconvenient, like when my sister can't drive me home from school, I can't just text a friend and ask for a ride. ” This outlines the students’ main issue, which is the limited opportunities for communication.

The new Dean of Students Mr. Owens explains, “this [frequent messaging] is distracting and as a school we want one consistent line of communication.” He believes, “the policy will also need the parents' support.” Students' old routines will be interrupted by the changes and parents can help by also supporting the change. The administration recognizes that they need to adjust to these new procedures and it may take some time to do so. It may not be perfectly running right now, but hopefully soon it will be in full swing.

I also interviewed science teacher Mrs. Albertson, she said, “Despite the year just having started I have already noticed more personal socializing among the students.” She notices “more lively interactions throughout the day.” Mrs. Albertson is not the only person to notice positive change. Mr. Owens said, “ the commons and lunches have been louder than usual.” He was glad to see students socializing.

So yes, the policy shocked students and may upset the majority. As seen in the student poll, only 7 out of 72 liked the policy. One responder said, “I like the no phone policy because when I have conversations with people they are engaged and not distracted by their phone.” Change will always feel new and it will take time to adjust to the policy. I feel the phone policy will benefit all students tremendously in the end.