A new policy was implemented at Woodgrove High School with the start of the school year – “Bell to Bell No Cell.” This policy has sparked interest from multiple parties, but the research backing limitations on cell phone use in schools is virtually impossible to refute. Cell phone bans and restrictions have resulted from research done at top universities, which have been implemented throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The main argument made in favor of cell phone use in class is the benefit of having a cell phone as an additional learning tool. However, Dylan Lukes at Harvard Graduate School of Education researched the effects cell phone bans had on students’ sense of safety, school discipline, and overall school culture. He made the argument that educational productivity is just as important as academic success. Lukes finding suggested, “an improvement to educational  productivity due to the New York City’s Department of Education (NYCDOE) ban. But there’s a tradeoff – a cost to school culture.”

Academic success is the most commonly used reason for schools to implement new policies. Most studies have concluded that cell phone use in classrooms leads to lower test scores and shorter learning retention. In addition, studies done on multitasking in general have shown lower rates of learning and task completion. 

Teachers at Woodgrove are adhering to the ban, however there is a time and place for phones in some classrooms as a learning tool. Senior Brooke Borvanski says, “I would use my phone during art to look at Pinterest for inspiration.” Teachers are enforcing the rule in different ways. 

Mr. Alex Bennett, a government teacher at Woodgrove, explains “Emailing home the first time a student is on their phone can injure the relationship.” Bennett allows students to keep their phones, but asks students to keep them put away during class. He’s noticed that some students “keep it close” and will use it during their free time. However, other teachers have students put phones in their backpacks at the front of the room, while others have designated holders or locations for students’ phones. 

Some students have an emotional attachment to their phones, however setting them aside during class will increase test scores and overall classroom engagement. Teachers and administrators will continue to limit cell phone use, but it is for students’ own benefit. Listen to the research, the teachers, and put your phones down.