TOLLESON, Ariz. — It's a growing problem in schools and districts are taking action.
Already, multiple school districts in Arizona have banned students from having cell phones in the classroom. Now Tolleson Union High School District may join them.
At a recent governing board meeting the deputy superintendent, Juan Ceja, spoke about the idea. Ceja cited studies he and other members of leadership at the district have combed through to see what their options are.
Ceja said banning cell phones not only gets rid of a pesky distraction but also improves students' mental health, enhances social interaction and improves academic performance. The problem he said is that it's hard to enforce as students get creative to keep their phones with them.
"Students will bring in a dummy phone, put that away, but then still keep their personal phone with them," Ceja said.
Leadership looked into what is going on at other school districts including those in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Apache Junction and Bullhead City. All have bans to varying degrees. Some only allow students to keep their phones in backpacks while others have students put their phones in a locker.
"Some campuses have resorted to designated phone zones where maybe in a particular part of the campus is where students are allowed to use their phones," the deputy superintendent said.
They also considered portable locking devices like what you see at a comedy show or certain other events. Students would be able to carry the device with them, but they would still not be able to access their phones.
Parents and students are split on the ban. Parents said they are for it because they believe these devices are a distraction, while students said they don't like the idea of not being able to call their parents or guardians if an emergency were to happen on campus.
Ceja said the district will work with both groups and teachers to find solutions that will work for everyone.
The governing has not voted on a cell phone ban at this time but a spokesperson said it will be discussed again at an upcoming meeting.
The next school board meeting is scheduled for Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. at the District offices, which are located at 9801 W Van Buren Street in Tolleson.
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