Bill 959 bans cellphone use in school all over the state of North Carolina. “We also recognize that cell phones have a tremendous impact on instruction and teaching and learning,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.  (Photo created via canva by Gabriella Cueto)

The new policy has banned the use of cellphones in the classroom at Leesville, preventing students from having their phones on their person–phones are to be kept in their backpacks. 

You could be wondering if there are exceptions depending on the county or even based on your school.

While many students may think that the policy was a school or admin decision, this cellphone ban has been implemented statewide.

“It is important to note that it will affect students differently depending on their grade levels. The policy is more restrictive for elementary and middle school students. Those students must completely put their phones away,” according to abc11.com. 

While students in elementary and middle school are prohibited from using their devices even during lunch periods, high school students have access to their devices during this time.

Some students feel as though the policy is unnecessary. “ I think we should be able to use our phones when there is nothing going on in the class,” said Isaac Rivas, junior. 

Banning cellphone use is intended to reduce distractions in the cellphones. In the case of an emergency, students may get permission from their teacher to use their device. 

“Personally I am unbothered by the new policy because students in my classes kept their phones away during instruction. However it is beneficial to have a policy promoting focus in the classroom,” said Senor Florence, Spanish teacher. 

The bill banning phones has many more components, students are to learn about the negative effects of social media “and other information, like maintaining personal security and identifying human trafficking through the internet.”

Do you think the new policy will benefit you in the classroom?