Concern that students may use their phones inappropriately has caused Milton High School administration to increase enforcement of school rules this year.
Because of these issues, students are not allowed to use cell phones during class. They are permitted “before and after school, during transitions, lunch and pride time,” according to the Classroom Norms posted in all the high school rooms.
The administration has implemented strict cell phone policies, said High School Principal Mr. Michael Bergey. According to the Milton High School Handbook, “Staff members will determine the need for student telephone calls according to emergency circumstances,” such as forgotten homework and projects, backpacks, etc.
Cell phones have continuously proven to be a distraction to students, according to Mr. Bergey. Having phones out during class is disrespectful to teachers and disrupts the learning process for students, Mr. Bergey said, adding that “phones and inappropriate usage of phones cause a significant interruption to the learning process.”
Cell phones don’t just cause issues in the classroom. They can cause problems all around the school. “Ninety-five percent of problems we see in this building are 100 percent connected to cell phone usage,” said Mr. Bergey.
There are different levels of discipline that teachers should follow when a student is caught with their phone out. According to Mr. Bergey, teachers should first warn the student and tell them to put it away. If the student continues to get their phone out, the teacher is expected to call home.
If a student uses their phone again, a teacher should take the device or call the office so they can confiscate the student’s device. Ultimately if the student continues to disobey the rules, that student will not be allowed to bring their cell phone to school any more, he explained.
High School Assistant Principal Mr. William Campbell said he and Mr. Bergey agree that “cell phones are a distraction to the individual with the phone and everybody in the classroom.” Mr. Campbell added that he has addressed “ten plus” phone related issues this year.
