Dear Atlanta Public Schools Leadership,

As students across the district, we are writing to respectfully voice our concerns about the new strict phone policy that has recently been implemented in our schools. While we understand and appreciate the goal of creating a more focused and engaged learning environment, we feel that this policy, as it stands, overlooks the realities of student life and our ability to be part of the solution.

For many of us, our phones are more than just devices for entertainment—they are essential tools for communication, safety, and learning. In a world where emergencies can happen at any time, being able to contact our parents or guardians directly offers us a sense of security. Not every situation can be handled through the front office, and sometimes, a quick message home can ease anxieties or help us respond to a sudden change in plans. Removing that access for the entire school day feels not only inconvenient but also unfair.

We also believe that policies that directly affect students should include student voices. This new phone policy was introduced without our input, even though we are the ones most affected by it. When students are left out of these conversations, it sends the message that our perspectives don’t matter. In reality, we want to be responsible, we want to learn, and we want to help make our schools better. Including us in these decisions would show trust in our ability to grow and mature.

Furthermore, this policy does not consider the different ways students use their phones to support their education. For some of us, phones help bridge access gaps—whether through translation apps, internet access when Wi-Fi fails, or academic tools and reminders. A one-size-fits-all rule doesn’t take into account the different needs we have or the challenges we face outside the classroom.

Another issue we see is the approach of strict punishment and zero tolerance when it comes to enforcement. Confiscating phones or issuing harsh consequences doesn’t teach us how to manage technology responsibly; it simply creates fear or resentment. Instead of focusing on discipline, why not use this as an opportunity to teach? We live in a digital world, and learning how to use phones appropriately, especially in academic settings, is a skill we’ll carry into adulthood.

We ask that the district consider a more balanced approach—one that includes clear boundaries, but also flexibility, fairness, and education. Establishing phone-free times or zones could be one solution. More importantly, we believe that incorporating digital citizenship, time management, and responsible tech use into our learning would help us become better students and better decision-makers.

We’re not asking to be on our phones all day. We’re asking to be treated as partners in our own education. We care deeply about our learning, our future, and the culture of our schools. We hope that the district will listen to student voices and work with us to create a policy that supports both focus in the classroom and respect for our needs as young people growing up in a connected world.

Sincerely,
The Students of Atlanta Public Schools