Banned Phones: What to Do
- Julianna Fini
- Oct 13
- 2 min read
Just like me, this upcoming school year YOUR phones are being taken away. Though this might not be the case for everyone, around 23 states have banned cell phone use in schools, calling it the “bell-to-bell” ban.
At my school, YONDR pouches will lock our phones at the beginning of the school day before we enter, and they’ll only be opened at the last bell when we leave. States have decided on this ban because they believe this change is necessary for kids to have a successful and distraction-free school year.
I know this could be very upsetting, but let’s be aware of a couple of things.
Being Present
Being present in the classroom is SO important on so many levels! Paying attention to your teachers while showing them the respect they deserve. Also, building relationships with your classmates and strengthening your communication with others.
What to Do When You’re Bored
You may be thinking, well, what am I supposed to do when I’m bored?
Here are a couple of things you could do:
Talk to your friends (if that’s allowed).
Read a book.
Finish some homework.
Doodle!
Do something that keeps your mind moving. Immediately turning to your phone isn’t the cure for boredom every time.
Life After the Last Bell
Though you’ve had your phones for previous school years, the shift to absolutely NO electronics during the day could be challenging. This might lead you to reach for your phone immediately after school.
If you’re going home on a bus, limit yourself to either just the ride home, or even half the bus ride. But make sure you are always aware of your surroundings.
At home, this could lead to being glued to your screen because you’re thinking, “I have to make up for all that missed screen time, social media updates, etc.” But this is when you really have to limit yourself. Instead of going directly on your phone when you get home, make a list of your homework, chores, and other things you need to get done to finish your day off strong. Then, make a window of 30 minutes of screen time when everything is finished—almost like a reward!
A Note for Drivers
Juniors and Seniors driving home, listen up.
I know your immediate reaction is to catch up with friends, scroll on your phone, or text. But you have to make sure you are fully aware of your driving.
If you need to answer some texts real quick, park your car and WAIT before you drive. If nothing is too important, put your phone in your book bag or in a spot where you won’t see it, and just wait until you get home.
It is so important for the safety of yourself and others that you stay off your phone while driving.
Final Thoughts
The beginning of the school year might start off tough. Adapting to the change of no cell phones after using them all summer is going to be challenging. But remember, this is only for your benefit and well-being.
This shift will lead to positive habits of less screen time and building your social character. So get ready for this new change, and good luck with the upcoming school year!
While thinking about how many industries are similarly being transformed by technology and regulation, I came across this article https://thenationonlineng.net/sport-betting-software-in-south-africa/ which dives into how sports-betting software in South Africa is evolving rapidly. My take on the phone-ban piece: it hits the right note on encouraging presence, reducing distraction and forming healthier habits, but it also simplifies the issue. The reality is nuanced — simply removing devices doesn’t guarantee better engagement or learning, and places like schools with under-resourced environments might struggle to offer meaningful alternatives. Plus, there’s a missed perspective on how students’ digital lives outside school need just as much attention — the ban is a start, not a full solution.
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Prioritizing safety over quick catch-up learning is the most responsible message a student can give. Great advice for everyone—good luck adjusting to the new school year! Sprunki Game