Our phones are a lifeline, especially in times of urgent need or emergencies. I can't imagine being at school without having a way to communicate when I'm in distress or need immediate assistance. What if a young girl gets her first period and feels too embarrassed or scared to approach a teacher? Without a phone, she can't text her mom or a friend for help. What if I lose track of my sibling who’s supposed to drive me home after school? Am I supposed to wonder around, unsure of what to do and with no way to contact them? What if I need to say my final good byes to a loved one. Instead of focusing on getting phones away from teenagers maybe focus on banning things that really matter, “never again” but little metal bullets Rip through schools and children still. 

A phone ban in schools strips students of their means to seek comfort or aid when it's most necessary. It fails to recognize the realities that students face every day. Instead of focusing on an outright ban, why not create policies that encourage the responsible use of phones? Establish guidelines that maintain school decorum while ensuring that students are not left disconnected in moments of necessity.

The intention behind limiting phone usage might be to increase focus and reduce distractions, but it comes at the cost of isolating students when they need connection the most. We need to focus on holistic approaches that address both concerns without completely eliminating a vital resource.

I urge the New York school board and policymakers to reconsider this forthcoming ban. Let’s work together to create a balanced framework that supports educational focus while acknowledging and upholding our students’ right to stay connected and secure. Please sign this petition to ensure students keep their access to help and support when they need it most.