WFISD set in place a new cell phone policy before the start of the year which allows students to use their phones during lunch and between classes. However, students are abusing this freedom and are using their phones non-stop throughout the school day. This is frustrating teachers and disrupting the class’s learning experience. Students need to set down their phones so they can keep up their education.

Our lives are infused with all things technology but there are certain places, even outside of school, that don’t appreciate the constant use of cell phones. If there is a bright light distracting people’s attention from the movie they paid to watch, that person can be escorted out of the theater. No one appreciates that distraction. Give school and your teachers the same importance as you would an entertainment you pay for.

Cell phones distract and take away from what is happening right in front of you. The same applies to the classroom. Students need to realize the words that are coming out of their teachers’ mouths are more important than the words of your friends on a tiny screen.

The school’s new policy has a purpose beyond giving students more time to look at texts and listen to music. The purpose is to give enough time for cell phones outside of class to prevent the usage during. It also exists to teach responsibility of a technology that has intruded into all parts of people’s lives.

The constant connection hurts students everywhere, not only at school. Set the phone down and listen to instruction. Listen to the teacher when they say to put your phone up. Going 45 minutes without your phone won’t kill you.