Every day at Boardman High School, students face the inconvenience of not having access to their phones during lunch and study hall, as well as the frustration of locked bathrooms. These restrictions have caused unnecessary challenges, impacting not just my experience at school, but that of countless other students as well.

First, consider the benefit of allowing phone usage during lunch and study hall periods. For many students, these breaks provide an essential opportunity to catch up on personal and academic tasks. Access to our phones could mean the difference between efficiently managing our time and falling behind on important deadlines. Many students use their phones to check school emails, organize homework assignments, check grades, and even collaborate in group projects through educational platforms. Furthermore, allowing controlled phone usage would deter students from sneaking phone time during classes, thereby reducing disruptions. The current zero-tolerance policy feels punitive and fails to recognize the potential for increased responsibility and self-management.

Moreover, the act of locking bathrooms as a form of punishment is both impractical and ineffective. Access to restrooms is a basic necessity, and denying it disrupts our learning environment and affects our well-being. When bathrooms are locked, it causes undue anxiety and discomfort, leaving students searching desperately for an open facility. This policy does not deter misbehavior; instead, it penalizes all students rather than addressing specific issues of concern.

By allowing phones during selected periods and maintaining open access to restrooms, the school could see a positive shift in student behavior and morale. We understand the need for school policies that maintain order, but these particular restrictions do not reflect the needs or realities of today's students. Schools that have embraced more progressive policies have seen improvements in student satisfaction and efficiency.

We urge the administration of Boardman High School to reassess and adapt these policies. With these changes, we foresee a more supportive and efficient learning environment where students are empowered to take responsibility for themselves. Sign this petition if you believe in a fair, modern, and compassionate approach to school regulations that support both student needs and academic success. Together, we can make a difference for our school community.