Student Thoughts on the Cell Phone Ban

Hey Vikings, welcome back to school. It’s a brand new school year calling for new school supplies, friends, and policies…? This year, we’ve got a brand new school policy that’s not only affecting our school but schools all across California: a phone ban. Vikings, I’m curious to know how you’re thinking about this new school ban, so I asked a few of you guys, and here’s what you had to say: 

For junior Kiera Nojima, the change was something she wasn’t immediately comfortable with. “I was a bit unsure of it at first, to be honest. I was kind of fighting against it, and I think there are still alot of issues with it. It’s not perfect. But I do think I have noticed a little more interaction between students, which is nice,” she explained. Her perspective shows both the challenges and the small positives she’s noticed since the policy began. 

Senior Justice Blacknell shared a similar initial skepticism; however, his opinion shifted after experiencing the ban in action. “At first, I was a little skeptical of it since we do not have our devices on us, but after the first few days of this phone ban, I feel that it is necessary. It helps bring the community together and helps people like me, who are shy and often retreat to their phones, to open up. We’re forced to make friends, which is honestly good,” he said. For Justice, the policy created opportunities for connection that he might not have otherwise sought out. 

Not everyone sees the benefits. Sophomore Sarah Doumbia voiced strong opposition to the ban, feeling that it removes a needed outlet for students. “I highly dislike it. I think that it’s kind of a useless ban. I don’t think that it was necessary in any way, shape, or form. One of my reasons is that I know many students use their phones as a small escape from the stress of being at school, and without that, everyone is kind of just off on their own. If that makes sense, now people can’t really get that safe space in their phone.”

The phone ban, then, has become more than just a rule about devices; it’s a mirror reflecting how differently students experience school life. For many, it opened a door to more conversation and connections, and for others, they still need time. What’s clear is that his policy sparked conversation among students, pushing everyone to reflect on how technology shapes our everyday lives. I’m thrilled that Vistamar View is back, and after such a strong first month of school, I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year holds for us. Go Vikings!