As a student at Silverland Middle School, I confess that the strict rule denying me the right to text or have my device, particularly my phone, during school hours and free time has raised significant concern. Like many of my peers, I use my phone to text my parents throughout the day about my after-school activities when needed. 

Another thing is that we are not able to have our phones at lunch, which also ties in with the no-contact policy with our parents. I understand not having your phone out during class, but not being able to use it during our free time is going too far.

The absence of devices in schools is a topic of ongoing debate, with growing research suggesting that phones can, when used responsibly, have a positive impact on learning and safety (EdTech Magazine, 2019). Teens in this digital age are more attuned to using their phones for research, educational content, and quick communication with their guardians. 84% of teens have reported using their phones for emergencies (Pew Research Center, 2018).

I bring this to light because I heard that they are bringing to attention banning phones completely, meaning that we wouldn't be able to have our phones on us or in our bags. My Mother agrees that I have to keep my phone on me at all times so this would be a compromise with parents as well as students.

Therefore, I request the Silverland Middle School Board to reconsider its current policies and consider implementing a reasonable cell phone use policy that respects the purpose of education and acknowledges the need for students to stay connected with their families during school hours. Let us work towards a resolution that satisfies both the school's quest for focus and the student's need for immediate communication.