Allow Students to Use Phones in School

Recent signers:
Gage Lewis and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

I believe that allowing students to use phones in school can be incredibly beneficial. There are times when we need to look up information, yet we are stuck without access to technology we carry every day. It is unfair that students are not allowed to utilize their phones when teachers aren't present or during lunch and passing periods. Meanwhile, teachers have the privilege of keeping their phones accessible at all times without any restrictions.

Phones today are powerful learning tools, capable of providing immediate information and resources necessary for students to excel. Many educational apps and online resources are designed specifically to aid students in understanding complex subjects. During free periods like lunch or in places where teachers are not around, these devices can be invaluable in continuing independent learning and managing tasks effectively.

Furthermore, it's during these "gap" times when students have a few precious moments to catch up on assignments or explore interests freely, using their phones to enhance productivity instead of waiting for limited computer time in libraries.

Schools need to trust students with the same responsibility they give to teachers regarding phone use. A fair policy allowing students to use phones during specific non-teaching times without facing consequences is essential.

I urge educational institutions to revisit their policies on mobile phones and recognize them as essential tools for education. Let's create an environment that supports students' educational needs by allowing phone use at designated times. By doing so, we promote a fair, equitable system for both students and educators.

Please sign this petition to support bringing phones back into schools, allowing students the opportunity to learn using every tool available to them.

425

Recent signers:
Gage Lewis and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

I believe that allowing students to use phones in school can be incredibly beneficial. There are times when we need to look up information, yet we are stuck without access to technology we carry every day. It is unfair that students are not allowed to utilize their phones when teachers aren't present or during lunch and passing periods. Meanwhile, teachers have the privilege of keeping their phones accessible at all times without any restrictions.

Phones today are powerful learning tools, capable of providing immediate information and resources necessary for students to excel. Many educational apps and online resources are designed specifically to aid students in understanding complex subjects. During free periods like lunch or in places where teachers are not around, these devices can be invaluable in continuing independent learning and managing tasks effectively.

Furthermore, it's during these "gap" times when students have a few precious moments to catch up on assignments or explore interests freely, using their phones to enhance productivity instead of waiting for limited computer time in libraries.

Schools need to trust students with the same responsibility they give to teachers regarding phone use. A fair policy allowing students to use phones during specific non-teaching times without facing consequences is essential.

I urge educational institutions to revisit their policies on mobile phones and recognize them as essential tools for education. Let's create an environment that supports students' educational needs by allowing phone use at designated times. By doing so, we promote a fair, equitable system for both students and educators.

Please sign this petition to support bringing phones back into schools, allowing students the opportunity to learn using every tool available to them.

The Decision Makers

Steve King
Former New York Mills Union Free School Board
Jacqueline Edwards
New York Mills Union Free School Board

Supporter Voices

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Petition created on September 5, 2025