What’s the point of a free period if we can’t use our devices?

For many students at the Bronx High School of Science, free periods are rare moments in a packed school day when we can catch up on messages, complete schoolwork, organize our schedules, or simply take a break. However, the new complete ban on Wi-Fi-capable devices removes our ability to use technology during these periods and limits how we can manage our time.

The current policy does not fully reflect the needs of modern students. Technology is already an important part of our education and daily lives. Laptops, tablets, and phones allow students to communicate, access educational resources, manage assignments, and stay organized. Completely banning these devices prevents students from using technology responsibly, even when they are not disrupting classes.

Bronx Science's policy also stands out compared with how many other schools approach device restrictions. In many schools, restrictions primarily focus on phones during instructional time, while students can still use other technology when appropriate. A complete ban on all Wi-Fi-capable devices goes beyond simply preventing classroom distractions. It limits students' access to technology even during free periods, when there is no instruction taking place.

Free periods should also give students some independence over how they use their time. Some students may want to finish an assignment, check their schedule, communicate with family, or use an educational resource. Others may simply want to relax after a demanding class. A complete device ban takes away these options and treats all device use as a problem rather than allowing students to demonstrate responsibility.

Devices can also be important for communication and safety. Students may need to contact their families about transportation, after-school activities, schedule changes, or unexpected situations. While emergencies can be handled through school staff, having access to a personal device provides an additional way for students to communicate when necessary.

We understand the concerns behind limiting device use in school. Devices can be distracting during class, and students should be expected to focus when instruction is taking place. However, there is a difference between preventing distractions during class and completely banning devices throughout the school day. A balanced policy could restrict device use during instructional time while allowing responsible use during free periods.

We urge the administration to reconsider the complete device ban and work with students to create a more balanced policy. Allowing responsible use of Wi-Fi-capable devices during free periods would give students greater independence while still maintaining a focused learning environment.

Please support this petition to reconsider the complete device ban at Bronx High School of Science. Together, we can work toward a school environment that promotes both responsibility and academic success.

PS: There are also serious safety concerns with completely taking away students’ access to their devices. Last year, during a bomb threat at Bronx Science, students were outside the school in a dangerous situation. Despite the circumstances, one teacher reportedly took away the phones of at least 10 students. In a situation where students may need to contact their families, receive emergency updates, or communicate with others, having no access to a personal device can be especially concerning. Situations like this show why there needs to be an exception for emergencies and why students should not be completely cut off from their devices.



************THIS PETITION WAS STARTED BY ARIANNA!!!!!!***********