This academic year, MICDS implemented a new policy that prohibits student use of cell phones during the school day. This policy also bars the usage of headphones outside of the McCulloch Library and the Academic Center. Students were eager to share their opinions.
“I think that the phone policy really restricts students from being able to access all the resources that they can during school,” Angelina Hu ‘26 said. “It also limits their learning because sometimes [using] the phone is a lot more efficient than using the computer.”
“I don’t agree with it, because now I lack the ability to communicate with my friends. It’s harder to find out what time it is and where my schedule is,” Kristiana Rogan ‘28 said.
Faculty members also responded. “I think it’s good overall. I’ve been working here for 16 years and for the first time in a while I clearly see more people socializing with each other, interacting and present,” Daniel Sadicario, English teacher, said.
Alex Rolnick, history teacher, spoke about how the policy has impacted students in his classroom. “Although I have heard some complaints from students, some of which I do think are reasonable, the amount of in-person, intentional conversation I see students having has been really good,” Rolnick said. “ I’m also noticing that at the start of class, for example, there often used to be people on their phones. Now, they’re checking in and building meaningful relationships with one another,” he added.
Others looked to the future. “I know people are ready for us to try and gather some kind of feedback from the student community to hear whether it’s impacted them,” Louise Hindle, English teacher, said. “I’d be curious about how the students think the policy has impacted their wellness. Are they recognizing benefits for themselves?”
