TEACHERS are always trying to find new ways to get students off their phones. Sometimes, no matter how many times teachers give warnings, students will still be on their phones. Most science teachers have changed their class phone policy.
Ms. Egget was the teacher who came up with the idea of paper bags. “I was worried about my students not being able to be successful in school because of their phones,” said Eggett. She has seen huge improvements in her students. They have said they are more focused and Egget sees more interaction with classmates. She also noticed that most kids are OK with letting their phone go for a little. But there are still some kids who try to be sneaky with it.
Students are thrilled with the plan. Jasmin Hernandez (9) said she dislikes it because she can’t listen to music. And according to her, she doesn’t feel productive, because she’s just thinking about being on her phone.
“I think it’s kind of an issue because what if there is an emergency and I can’t respond to my family because my phone is in the bag,” said Jessica Trujillo (12). Phones being locked up during emergencies might be an issue depending on what type of situation it is because the bags can be noisy and draw attention to the classrooms.
Trinity Avila (10) thinks it helps; she thinks they are a big help that prevents distractions during class. but she isn’t sure if she likes it or dislikes it. She likes that it helps her focus on work, but she also misses listening to music and checking her phone once and a while.
Ariana Lozano (11) says she doesn’t mind putting her phone away. “I dislike the idea because I don’t think it’s necessary for us to put our phones in a bag. I use my phone as a tool for when I’m confused and need to search something up,” she said
“Phones are a big distraction,” said Mr. Moon. He’s seen that more students get their work done when they’re off their phones, and hopefully, their biggest reward is their grades. It is easy, the teacher hands students paper bags and they just set their phones/headphones in there. They staple it shut and set it on their desk. If students don’t follow instructions, they will have phones placed in those Granger phone envelopes and sent to the office.
