As Kansas considers banning cell phones in schools, students have expressed their concerns and support on this topic. Kevin Valenbrun, does not agree with banning phones.
” I think it’s unnecessary to ban phones,” he said.
Valenburn said that students should be trusted to make good choices at school. He believes phones are not always a problem if students know when to focus.
“Students should know when and when not to have their phones out, and when to pay attention to class,” Valenburn said.
This shows that he feels responsibility is important. He believes teachers should set clear classroom rules instead of banning phones for everyone. Valenburn also feels that being trusted helps students act more mature. He thinks that learning responsibility is an important skill students need for the future, especially for jobs and college. Another student, Luis Ortiz, a Trade sophomore, also shared his opinion on the phone ban. Ortiz talked about both the good and bad sides of allowing phones in school. He believes phones can help some students learn better and feel more comfortable. He explained that listening to music helps him and other students focus, and phones make this possible during independent work time. Ortiz shared how he felt about the banning,
” I personally dislike this situation.” Ortiz said.
After saying this, Ortiz explained that phones can be useful learning tools in so many ways, and that they’re not just distractions. Ortiz also understands that phones can cause problems if students misuse them. He mentioned that texting, social media and games can distract students during lessons, but students can use these devices in ways to help them succeed in school. He believes that teachers view phones in a bad way and have a hard time giving non-school devices a chance
“I would let students use their phones for music or school stuff, but not during tests or lessons to keep them focused.” Oritz said.
Ortiz supports limits instead of a full ban and believes balance is the best solution. Overall, both students believe phones should not be completely banned in Kansas schools but believe that there should be more rules to the devices. Valenburn focuses on trust and responsibility, while Ortiz supports balance and clear rules to help students succeed.
