(Please DO NOT DONATE, it does not work)

In today's fast-paced educational environment, the ability to efficiently complete written assignments is crucial. As students of Chaminade, we are expected to deliver multiple essays, participate in Advanced Placement (AP) exams, and complete various other assignments that require extensive writing. The recent ban on keyboard use is a heavy blow to our productivity and performance in these academic tasks.

Many of us barely manage to complete our essays in time when using keyboards. Without them, typing speeds are drastically slower, increasing the risk of incomplete assignments and negatively impacting our grades. Typing on a keyboard is a skill that translates directly to improved efficiency; it allows us to articulate our thoughts more swiftly and keep up with the fast-moving demands of our curriculums.

While handwriting has its merits, a balance should be maintained that reflects modern educational approaches and the tools necessary for success. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 78% of students use computers as essential tools for efficient learning and productivity. Denying this resource to students places us at a disadvantage compared to our peers nationwide.

Moreover, keyboard proficiency is not just about speed; it prepares students for higher education and future careers where computer skills are indispensable. The skill to quickly and accurately type is as fundamental in today's world as knowing how to sign one's name.

We understand the intention may have been to improve handwriting skills or reduce screen exposure, but such a blanket ban does not accommodate the needs and realities of academic assessments we face. Instead, we propose a compromise: allow keyboards for timed assignments and exams while encouraging a blend of both handwriting and typing for regular classwork.

Reconsidering this policy will not only enhance academic performance at Chaminade but also ensure that students are fully equipped with the skills necessary for success in both academic and professional realms.

We urge the administration to lift the keyboard ban and provide us with the tools we need to thrive in our educational pursuits. Please sign this petition to support our call for a more balanced and forward-thinking approach to student learning resources.