Since the beginning of the year, new policies have been in effect here at FHS, with mixed reception from the student body. The most significant one, in my opinion, is the new cell phone policy. Teachers are required to enforce this policy, as quoted from the school handbook:
“In an effort to create a safe and effective learning environment Franklin High School students are permitted limited use of their personal electronic devices… Personal electronic devices include but are not limited to cell phones, headphones, AirPods, iPods, iPads, and Smart Watches.”
The policy goes on to state that devices can be used in the cafeteria during lunch periods and within the hallways before and after school. Devices can never be used in the school office, restrooms, locker rooms, or in the classroom. However, students can be allowed to use their device in the classroom “for the sole purpose of engaging in educational activities when specifically directed by their teacher.”
If students are caught violating the cell phone policy: On the first offense, the student’s phone will be confiscated and the teacher will take the phone to the main office. The student can pick up their phone at the end of the day. On the second offense, parents will be contacted and 45-minute detention will be issued. On their third offense, the parents must come to pick up the phone in the main office and the student will be issued a two hour Saturday detention. On the fourth offense, a conference with the student, their parents, and an administrator will be held.
Clearly, cell phone usage is a problem with a lot of the student body and I respect that the administration is taking the initiative here, instead of just leaving it up to the teachers to figure out what to do. But it’s ultimately up to the student to decide how to manage their cell phone usage during school.